Euro Weekly News - Costa Blanca North 3 - 9 December 2020 Issue 1848

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The people’s paper ISSUE NO. 1848

3 - 9 December 2020

COSTA BLANCA NORTH • WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

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A CHAIN of euro coins along Avenida de Albir this Sun­ day, December 6, will raise funds for Alfaz’s Food Bank. The Social Volunteers As­ sociation, We Love Albir and Alfaz Town Hall are asking members of the public to add a euro coin ­ or coins ­ to the Solidarity Chain in Avenida del Albir adjoining the open­ air market between 9am and 2pm. “All you need do is add a euro to make the chain as long as possible, since the money raised will go to the Food Bank,” explained Isabel Muñoz, councillor for Coop­ eration and Volunteering. “This is a small gesture

Photo credit: Alfaz town hall

FOOD BANK EUROS

IMPORTANT LINKS: A chain of euro coins will go to the Food Bank.

that can help many of the municipality’s families that are having a hard time at pre­ sent,” said Antonio Viso, president of Alfaz’s Social Volunteer, thanking the local population beforehand for their solidarity. Alfaz’s Social Volunteers have been helping local fami­ lies who risk social exclusion since 2013 and Viso drew at­

tention to the constant sup­ port that the association re­ ceives from residents and of­ ficial organisations as well as public and private bodies. “In short, a numerous group of people of all ages and all nationalities whom the Social Volunteer Associa­ tion wishes to thank while asking them to continue pro­ viding support,” he said.

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Grants for businesswomen

NINETY­FIVE Calpe businesses­owners, many of them women, received financial assistance to offset the first State of Alarm lockdown. Calpe Town Hall set aside a €52,869 allocation to help women owners and others whose businesses had been operat­ ing for less than three years and whose earnings were 50 per cent lower than during the same period in 2019. Subsidies of up to €600 per application went towards paying utilities bills or expenses incurred on loans for business premis­ es or commercial vehicles.

Animal welfare programme

ALTEA will have an Animal Welfare department with an €71,000 annual Budget. This will be used for picking up and sheltering strays, assist­ ing local pro­animal groups and funding information campaigns. Health and Animal Welfare councillor Jose Luis Leon Gascon also revealed that the the town hall’s sterilisation programme has been increased from €5,000 to €10,000. Accompanied by the Public Safety councillor Miguel de la Hoz and the Local Police chief, Herminio Navarro, Leon Gascon

also gave details of leaflets ex­ plaining in both Spanish and English what to do when look­ ing for a lost animal or finding one. Leon Gascon also thanked Al­ tea’s vets for their cooperation as well as the Local Police, all of whom had collaborated on set­ ting up the Domestic Animal Welfare Committee, whose first meeting was held on December 1. Held via Zoom, the meeting tackled modifying Altea’s by­ laws on owning animals. “These were obsolete and

Recovering the past ALICANTE’S provincial council the Diputacion is spending €133,000 on restoring Polop’s Castillo. Originally a 12th century Moorish stronghold that was the town’s cemetery until 1945, the Castillo was declared an Asset of Cultural In­ terest (BIC) in 1997. Some sections are badly deteriorated and restoration has involved urgent repairs to prevent their collapse, but Polop’s mayor Gabriel Fernandez said that work is now progressing at a good pace. Visiting the Castillo with Juan Francisco Perez Llorca, who heads the Diputacion’s Public Works department, Fernandez explained that the rehabilitation has the double purpose of recovering the municipality’s history while eventually increasing the tourist offer with an open­air museum.

needed to be adapted to the times that we live in,” the coun­ cillor explained. Subjects covered included creating public spaces for pets and improving the dogs­allowed beach in La Olla. Also high on the list of topics were the many issues affecting animal welfare in particular and the local popu­ lation in general, Leon Gascon said.

Disappointing catches

THE Teulada­Moraira Fishing Club’s latest Winter League match visited the River Jucar’s B2­B3 section. Fourteen rather cold contes­ tants agreed afterwards that it was ‘not a good day at the office’ although the early morning tem­ perature of seven degrees rose to 16 after a cloudy start. The water was very murky and only 33 fish totalling 50 kilos were caught, with the day’s best fish weighing in at 3.25 kilos. The club’s next match on De­ cember 9 will be the last before the Christmas break.

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Lions help out

THE Javea, Denia and Pe­ dregurer Lions Club donat­ ed €2,000 in vouchers to Javea’s Social Services de­ partment. The vouchers are each worth €20 and will enable families with limited means to buy essential supplies in MasyMas su­ permarkets. Rita Berruti, Javea’s So­ cial Services councillor, thanked the Lions for their continuing commitment to Javea’s most vulnerable and for maintaining their aid year after year. This year the Lions’ help was more valuable than ever, Berruti said, as it was so much more compli­ cated for charities to raise funds as restrictions im­ posed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus had also prevented them from organising their usu­ al events.

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NIBS EXTRA Brexit talk DOZENS of Britons attended a recent Benidorm Town Hall talk with advice on obtaining a postBrexit residence permit. The talk was given by the intercultural association Babelia and focused on procedures for obtaining a Residencia once the Brexit transition period expires and the rules have changed.

Park life JAVEA Town Hall is repairing La Plana paths that were eroded during recent downpours. As they are located inside the Montgo national park only authorised gravel may be used but since this deteriorates rapidly, especially during rain, Services councillor Kika Mata is seeking permission to use something more resistant and practical.

Baby boom PARENTS in neighbouring inland Beniarres, Gaianes, L’Orxa and Alcosser are calling for more paediatricians owing to an increase in the number of births in their towns. They have been without a paediatrician for 18 months and are now obliged to make the journey to Muro when their children need a doctor.

Get tested FROM January 1 Calpe will have its own ITV vehicle testing centre, which will be open 365 days a year, Calpe’s mayor Ana Sala announced. Until now the mobile ITV station visited the town in February, May and October, otherwise residents had to visit the Ondara centre.

Wider offer CLOTHING, footwear and items other than foodstuffs which were barred when Benidorm’s open-air market reopened in the summer, have now returned. Stalholders are trading on alternate weeks as it is vital to maintain social distancing since the market is visited by an average 7,000 people each Wednesday, the town hall explained.

Christmas cheer DENIA Town Hall is looking for a safe format enabling the town’s children to enjoy the arrival of the Three Kings after Christmas. Meanwhile, mayor Vicent Grimalt called on the local population to behave “very responsibly” over the Christmas period “otherwise we shall pay for it in mid-January,” he warned.

G I V I N G 4 G I V I N G has exceeded €180,000 in donations to worthy local causes. In the latest round of cash gifts, the charity presented We Love Albir’s Dino Trubbianelli with a cheque for €1,000 for the F ranciscan Refuge for Homeless Men in Gandia. The money will be used to help out over the Christmas period. Another €1,000 was handed to Martine Mertens and colleagues on behalf of Alfaz del P i social services for much-needed food and supplies over the holiday period Giving4Giving previously donated €1,000 to Benidorm Food Bank for less fortunate families.

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G4G cash gifts DONATIONS: Will be used to help out over the Christmas period. “Our total donations have reached €181,000 and we will continue to donate in

December and beyond,” said Gary, President and Founder of G iving4 G iving C ancer

Dredging operation THE Marina Baja Water Consortium is dredg­ ing a small dam on the Algar river to increase its capacity. The €106,000 cost will be covered by the Consortium’s own funds after the central gov­ ernment turned down a request for funds as­ signed to damage caused by the DANA (Iso­ lated High Altitude Depression) in September 2019. Dredging is necessary after the DANA, fol­ lowed last January by Storm Gloria, swept huge amounts of gravel, silt and debris down­ stream, filling the dam at the Mandem pump­ ing station where the Guadalest and Algar rivers meet in Altea. The Consortium’s chief engineer, Jaime

Berenguer, explained to Informacion newspa­ per that this has reduced the dam’s capacity. “We are emptying the dam so that it can once again hold the 10,000 cubic metres of water it was built for,” Berenguer said. Meanwhile, Benidorm ­ one of the Marina Baja towns belonging to the Consortium ­ has been suggesting for some time that the Guadalest reservoir itself should be dragged in order to increase its capacity. Failing that, Jose Ramon Gonzalez de Zarate, the councillor responsible for Benidorm’s water supply has asked the Madrid and the Confederacion Hidrografica del Jucar water board to raise the reservoir’s crest to increase capacity.

A not-so-dry topic VILLAJOYOSA’S Parks and Gardens employees are com­ pleting a course on xeriscaping. The municipal staff recently visited the L’Albarda Gar­ den in Pedreguer, renowned for its use of xeriscaping, where they were able to see the technique first­hand. This involves landscaping or gardening that reduces or eliminates the need for additional irrigation water by choosing native Mediterranean plants, shrubs and trees. Not only does this bring savings on water consump­ tion and labour costs, but it also reduces the risk of plagues and diseases.

Down the spout A Christmas homage

AS forecast, the Costa Blanca was hit by storms last week. The unstable weather was also responsible for a dramatic waterspout off the Alicante coast shortly before 2pm on Friday Novem­ ber 27 that was visible from Playa de San Juan, Muchavista and Campello for 15 min­ utes. It finally touched land in Campello’s Rincon de la Zofra, damaging benches and paving on the seafront at Rincon de la Zofra on the Muchavista beach.

Stalls up in arms STALLHOLDERS at Moraira’s Friday market complained that they are only allowed to trade on alternate weeks. “At present we are setting up 65 per cent ­ 70 per cent at most ­ of the stalls that we did last summer,” said Antonio Devesa, who sells men’s clothing. “We work in the open air, we obey all

C harity shops and W arehouse. “We depend on the generosity of the general community to make donations to Giving4Giving through clothing, shoes, unwanted gifts, small and large items of furniture so we can continue to make these substantial donations. “ G iving4 G iving also depends on our army of tremendous volunteers. Without these people who donate their time we would not be able to survive we thank you all.” G4G always needs donations and offer a house, apartment clearance service. To find out more, call Gary on 603 137 697.

the rules but we don’t get any help. On the contrary.” He lamented that this hardly made sense when shopping centres were al­ lowed to open. “And they are in closed spaces where there is more risk of contagion,” Devesa pointed out.

THIS year the Christmas tree in Benidorm’s Plaza del Ayun­ tamiento is dedicated to Spain’s medical profession. Three figures in front of the tree represent the doctors and nurses who have fought Covid­19 for the last eight months, explained Benidorm’s Fiestas councillor Jesus Carrobles. “The words ‘Thank You’ have been added in Spanish and Valenciano to acknowl­ edge the local population’s gratitude for the work they carry out each day,” Carrob­ les said. “As well as this sincere homage, the best way of thanking the health profes­ sionals for their work is to continue to behave responsi­ bly and comply with all anti­ Covid health and safety mea­ sures,” he added.

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Alicante province goes local ALFAZ joined the provin­ cial council’s campaign to promote local pro­ duce this Christmas. Vicente Arques, Alfaz’s mayor, recently signed the ApoyamosNues­ traProvincia (Support Our Province) agreement in Exhibition Room at the Palacio de la Diputacion in Alicante City. Arques, accompanied by Mayte Garcia ­ a Diputacion member and Alfaz councillor ­ took wine from the Enrique Mendoza vineyards, An­ tonio Alcaraz’s Faro de l’Albir extra virgin olive oil, Serra Gelada craft beer and Serra Gelada coffee hand­roasted in Albir. The ApoyamosNues­ traProvincia campaign promotes international­ ly­recognised products while encouraging the public to shop locally to support the self­em­ ployed, small and medi­ um businesses, manu­ facturers, distributors and retailers over Christ­ mas. The campaign, backed by all the province’s po­ litical parties, emphasis­ es the importance of ‘What is ours’ while showcasing Alicante Province’s culture, her­ itage and language as well as its textile indus­ try, agriculture, gastron­ omy and tourism. Arques explained that Alfaz is now committed to promoting local prod­ ucts in the news and so­ cial media. “Alfaz, with its cultur­ al, social and gastronom­ ical assets could not be absent from a campaign that can make us stronger and greater,” the mayor said. “It also highlights Ali­ cante Province’s ability to take action and excel at an especially critical time where unity should prevail and play a funda­ mental part,” Arques de­ clared.

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RECORD BREAKING NATIVITY Alicante NATIVITY scenes are commonplace in Spain and ultimately traditional, but where is the largest? Alicante is bidding to become the place with the largest nativity scene ever, right in front of the town hall square. The idea was announced earlier in the year, but it is now being assembled in the prominent Calle Raphael Altamira. The scene has Joseph as possibly the tallest character at over 18 metres high and the virgin Mary next to him in the square in front of Alicante Town Hall. The mayor of Alicante Luis Barcala of the PP said this specta-

Christmas Lights

STANDING TALL: Joseph measures over 18 metres. cle was initiated to draw attention to the city and help tourism and local business. Mexico currently holds the record for the largest nativity

Memorial service A STREAMLINED memorial for health workers who have died of Covid in Madrid was held at Alumudena Cathedra on Saturday, November 28. To date, 80 health personnel have died after being diagnosed with the virus since the pandemic began. President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the capital’s mayor, José Luis Martínez Almedida, and Minister of Health, Enrique Ruiz Escudero, attended the service, organised by the College of Physicians of Madrid (ICOMEM). During the event, names of the medical colleagues who lost their lives during the coronavirus pandemic were read out, and some family members participated in the liturgy readings. The ceremony was streamlined so that everybody could pay their respects.

scene, at 5.3m for the main figurines. This particular arrangement is being measured to see if it warrants a Guinness World Book of Records entry.

Local police busy IT was a busy weekend for police in Alicante, who were forced to file 24 complaints for a multitude of offences. On Friday night, November 27, they were called to break up six separate parties in the city. As well as the house parties, the Local Police had to break up a fight in a bingo hall and arrest a motorist who caused a traffic accident while riding a stolen motorcycle. If that wasn’t enough, five people were caught drink driving in the tunnel of Avenida de Dénia, and officers responded to two other traffic accidents, one involving a bicycle.

B U S I N ES S ES in Alicante have criticised the city council for what they deem an uneven distribution of Christmas lights on the streets this year, with the majority of the decorations focused in the city. While many owners have acknowledged an improvement in 2020, with lighting on previously forgotten streets, Vanessa Cárdenas, president of the Florida merchants, Juan Francisco López from Plaza Argel, and Adela Quereda from Campoamor feel they could have been better distributed on large suburban streets such as Avenida de Orihuela or Gaston Castello, or that existing displays in A lcoy and Jijina could have been improved. The mayor of Fiestas, Manuel Jiménez, has said that he will take these concerns on board for next year’s Christmas lighting.

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Valencia holiday calendar 2021 THE Valencia City Council unveiled the 2021 holiday calendar, choosing its two local holidays for next year, while each of the different municipalities will have to agree on their own pair of local fiestas. During recent years in Valencia City there has been a lot of debate regarding the festival of San Vicente Mártir and its cele­ bration on January 22. However, the city has agreed to keep this holiday and has also added the festival of San Vicente Fer­ rer on April 12. Both of these days will be public holidays next year. These local festivals are added to the days approved by the Generalitat for the Valencian Community work calendar, in which it has again included June 24 (San Juan), as a paid holi­ day. In 2021, there will also be holidays on January 1 (New Year), January 6 (Epiphany of the Lord), March 19 (San José), April 2 (Good Friday), April 5 (Easter Monday) , May 1 (Labour Festi­ val), and June 24 (San Juan). Likewise, there will be holidays on October 9 (Valencian Community Day), October 12 (Nation­ al Holiday of Spain), November 1 (All Saints), December 6 (Con­ stitution Day), December 8 (Immaculate Concepción) and De­ cember 25 (Christmas).

Calls for ‘nationwide agreement’ FOLLOWING a meeting be­ tween central and regional authorities on Wednesday, November 25, Costa Blanca representatives said they would like to see a nation­ wide agreement on mea­ sures, but would not make any firm decisions until De­ cember 9, when the regional borders reopen. Regional officials said that they supported the govern­ ment’s draft plan, which would limit gatherings over the festive period to six peo­

ple, but would see a slightly shorter curfew on December 24, 25 and 31 and January 1, 5, and 6 of 1am ­ 6pm. The Valencian government is also in favour of exception­ ally lifting the perimeter clo­ sure on those days to allow mobility between au­ tonomous communities to fa­ cilitate those family reunions to be held. Other regions, such as Madrid, are pushing for a 10­ person limit on gatherings and a curfew beginning at 1.30am.

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Chaser Furious Over ITV Salary ANNE HEGERTY, known as ‘The Governess,’ one of the regular ‘Chasers’ on hit ITV day­ time quiz show ‘The Chase,’ is reportedly fu­ rious with ITV bosses, as she faces a cut in salary after a brand new Chaser, Darragh Ennis, started on the show recently, and in an interview on the YouTube show, ‘The Lewis Nicholls Show,’ she was clearly agitat­

ed while being interviewed about the sub­ ject, “This is a tricky one because a lot of the public imagine that we are on the same sort of deal that Hollywood stars are in the 1930s. They got paid a salary per month, per year, and they were salaried employees at the studio and the studio would find them things to do for that salary. That isn’t actual­

ly how it works.” Anne, aged 62, continued, “We, The Chasers and Bradley, we get paid a flat fee per show, so, any show that I’m doing, is a show for which I’m being paid, and the other Chasers aren’t. And that applies to all of us. If you’re going to divide the shows by six rather than five, then, you know, do the maths.

Playground Gender stereotypes

Brit Instagramer arrested

THE Department of Education, Culture and Sports has published the ‘Guide to coeducational playgrounds’ to help schools and institutes to transform their recreation areas into co-educational spaces that promote equal and inclusive relationships. Minister Vicent Marzà explained that “schoolyards are the main spaces for socialisation for our students and, therefore, we are collectively rethinking them to break gender stereotypes and create inclusive spaces. We already have very good experiences that have come true and we must continue on this path so that it becomes generalised.” As well as the guide, or ‘Guia de patis coeducatius,’ the Department is also working on promoting innovative projects that promote equality and reduce stereotypes in schools: “Proof of this is the aid to innovation projects related to coeducational playgrounds, with an investment of close to €370,000, and that 139 schools and institutes are already developing,” Minister Marzà has detailed.

A BRITISH Instagrammer, identified as RT, has been arrested by National Police in Marbella, Malaga. The 27­year­old, who posted videos and images on Instagram in which he was committing criminal acts such as dangerous dri­ ving and pushing a vehicle into the river, has been charged with crimes against road safety and against the environment, as well as doc­ ument forgery. He was known for driving dangerously and on one oc­ casion, put the Guadaiza River at serious risk of cont­ amination by pushing a BMW into the water, ac­ companied by four other men and a woman. They abandoned the vehicle after removing the licence plates. At the time of his arrest, the police found two cars near his home with the same licence plate belong­ ing to the detainee, which had featured in some of his videos. The investigation began when the police removed

VIDEO: Shows crime.

the vehicle from the river and identified the owner af­ ter seeing the video. Several other people have been charged in the investi­ gation and all of the videos on his Instagram account which constituted a crime have been removed.

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Army Intervention Costa Blanca Who will get the vaccine and when? T H E  army had to intervene after a Covid-19 outbreak in a Costa Blanca nursing home. T he army was called in to a nursing home in Formentera del Segura after a coronavirus outbreak was reported to have af-

fected 17 residents and 10 staff members. Mayor Francisco Cano informed Informacion that the officials had been deployed to the Mediterráneo Decuvi residence, close to R ojales, for one day only, November 30, to

sanitise the facility. The first case among employees was registered on November 6 and the first among residents was confirmed two days later, on November 8. Almost the entire staff, including the director, has been affected. This residence has 40 places among total assisted, semi-assisted and self-sufficient people and is the only one in this municipality of Vega Baja.

AMID fears of there being a critical third wave of the coronavirus in Spain, following the lights, Black Friday shopping, bank holidays and then Christmas and New Year, the vaccination plan is as follows: Phase 1 ­ January to March (2.5 million people) Residents in care homes Healthcare workers Non­institutionalised dependants Phase 2 ­ March to beginning of June (order not yet known, but attending to the risk of them get­ ting ill or dying with Covid, based on whether they are exposed to it, the social and economic impact, and the risk of transmitting it) People aged over 64

JAVEA pharmacies are to become per­ manent Punto Violeta areas where gender violence victims may seek help. Javea’s Equality councillor Montse Villaverde revealed the plan as she pre­ sented the municipality’s annual awareness campaign supporting the victims of gender­related violence. This year’s slogan ‘No estas sola’ (You aren’t alone) aims to remind the local population that ending sexism is everybody’s responsibility, while creat­ ing a Punto Violeta network where abused girls and women can ask for help or protection. Until now Javea installed these infor­

People in conditions which put them at risk People who live or work in closed communities People in vulnerable groups of the population due to their social and economic situation People with essential jobs Teachers Children Teenagers and youths Adults People living in areas where there are outbreaks Pregnant and lactating women People who are seropositive to SARS­CoV­2 Phase 3 ­ Summer As more vaccines are available, more groups will be added.

You aren’t alone mation spots only during the fiestas and events like music festivals, Villaverde said. The Equality department has now gone one step further thanks to coop­ eration from the municipality’s 14 pharmacies and three tourist informa­ tion offices, the councillor announced. “Pharmacies are places that every­ body visits and where staff are used to giving personal attention adapted to each case. They are located through­

out the municipality, are accessible from anywhere in the town and there is always a duty chemist,” said the councillor, who added that the tourist information offices were equally easy to locate. The initiative received 100 per cent backing from all involved, who have now attended information sessions on handling gender violence cases and ac­ cessing psychological, legal and police help.

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Christmas Market Alicante

THE much-anticipated Christmas market at Plaza Seneca in Alicante was inaugurated on Sunday, November 29 by Mayor Luis Barcala and councillor for Fiestas, Manuel Jiménez. The officials strolled through the scene while verifying that all Covid-19 safety measures were complied with. Barcala said on Sunday: “This is another of the bets that is made by the Alicante City Council to generate hope for Christmas. At the same time, it is an important initiative to activate the economy and trade.” The festivities, including a dedicated children’s area, are monitored by an automated camera which controls the maximum capacity of 260; when this number is reached, a stop-and-go system is activated. Manuel Jiménez stressed that “in this premium craft market, above all, the safety of visitors is what is important. Hence the access control by means of an LED screen, which will make visible the number of attendees and will prevent more than allowed.”

Psychic Predictions TRACEY WOOLTERTON was born with a unique gift of being a true- born, natural EmpathMedium. Tracey’s client list includes Katie Price, Daniella Westbrook and Gemma Collins, to name a few. Now working with us exclusively at the EWN, Tracey will be giving us Month by Month predictions for what she foresees this coming year. Starting with December’s card read from Tracey: Two names are highlighted Russel (possibly Crowe) and Matthew Mark.

A Royal stepping down and a big secret revealed within the monarchy. Simon Cowell to announce another pregnancy. A further two lockdowns and a need for new plans and strategies regarding the virus. A large hurricane in the Pacific and an earthquake in Indonesia. So whilst there is still some trouble ahead towards the end of this year, positive changes are upon us. Tracey can be contacted via www.psychictracey.com.

Hospital System reduces Queues THE new queue management system that has been installed in some of Andalucia’s hospitals as a trial, is proving a success and will be rolled out to the rest of Andalucia and then nationwide. The ‘TurnoSAS’ has so far been installed in hospitals in Sevilla and involved an invest­ ment of over €1.5 million. The

management system has seen 450 large screen TVs and around 100 touch devices used in the Sevilla hospitals. The new system uses real time information to direct pa­ tients to the correct waiting area and reduce queue and delays. It also increases patient confiden­ tiality and safety.

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Talented Brussels pianist

A HOLOCAUST survivor, 89year-old Simon Gronowski found local fame in Brussels as he played jazz on his piano from the window of his apartment during the lockdown to entertain neighbours and now, he is back again during the second lockdown. He is a man of many talents, having played on stage with film director and jazz buff Woody Allen and he sees music as a means of communication and connection between friends and strangers. As a child, he owes his life to quick thinking as he jumped from a train carrying Jews and Romas to their eventual deaths at Auschwitz, which claimed the lives of his mother and sister as

FINDING FAME: Simon Gronowski at his piano.

well as more than 25,000 others deported from Belgium. He has travelled Europe and the USA as the former president of the Union of Jewish Depor-

tees in Belgium talking about the effects of the Holocaust and was earlier this year given an honorary doctorate in Humanism by Brussels University.

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3,000-year-old skeleton found dated to determine their precise age, however they are believed to be between 3,000 and 5,000 years old. They were found just west of Bangkok, about 12 kilometres from the coastline in Samut Sakhon.

THE almost perfectly preserved skeleton of a whale thought to be more than 3,000 years old has been found off the coast of Thailand. The Natural Resources and Environment minister, Varawut Silpa-archa says the bones resemble the Bryde’s whale, a species which can still be seen in the area and is approximately 12 metres long, the skull alone measures three metres. They will be carbon

WHALE BONES: Will be carbon dated.

Student nurse grateful for kind gestures AFTER her situation went viral due to her flatmates’ lack of solidarity, Covid-19 positive student nurse Elena Cañizares has taken to social networks again to say how grateful she is for the outpour of kind gestures she has experienced since. Elena’s flatmates found out that she had tested positive with Covid-19 and reacted in the worst way possible. They told her to go home to her parents, who are elderly and at risk, to self-quarantine, because she was ‘their responsibility.’ She has since appeared on

VIDEO CALLS: Elena has spoken out several times. national TV several times on video calls and spoken of how her situation is progressing. She has removed

the thread from Twitter in the hope of putting an end to her flatmates’ bullying and to avoid legal problems.

In just a few hours, her Tweet had been retweeted 50,000 times. Several brands offered her gifts, including home-delivered food, or to pay her rent for a year, although she preferred to give the money and gifts to charity. Neighbours have also called her to ask if she needs anything, and her landlord has been very understanding, she says. Obviously she can’t continue to live with her current flatmates and will be leaving once her quarantine is up in December.

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Sánchez Booed in Madrid

THE President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, and the Minister of Health, Salvador Illa, were received with boos during their visit to La Paz University Hospital in Madrid on Friday morning, November 27. Sánchez announced the lastminute visit on Thursday to the Central Unit for Clinical Research and Clinical Trials. He was accompanied by the Health minister and the Head of Science and Innovation, Pedro Duque. A crowd had gathered out-

Sánchez visited La Paz. side the hospital to watch their arrival, and people could be heard booing and shouting ‘Out, out’ as they went in. Again, as the president and his colleagues were leaving, peo-

ple chanted ‘scoundrel.’ “The disloyalty of the Prime Minister with Díaz Ayuso is an absolute shame. The same ones who have not visited a single hospital during the nine months of the pandemic, the same ones who have declined to visit for the inauguration of the Isabel Zendal hospital next Tuesday, take advantage of the fact that Díaz Ayuso is out of Madrid to visit the hospital of La Paz and show off,” commented general secretary of the PP in the Community of Madrid, Ana Camíns.

Furloughed mothers FURLOUGHED mothers may not be entitled to childcare payments legal advisors have warned. Depending on the type of ERTE (furlough) they have, by ceasing to carry out work for an employer, the requirements to receive childcare are no longer met and the mothers are no longer entitled to it. This affects the payment of €100 per month which working mothers, both employed and self-employed, are entitled to until the child is three years old. This also applies to any amount that they may

receive for sending the child (if under the age of three) to daycare or infant school. If a woman receiving these benefits is put on ERTE (furlough) and receives payment due to this suspension of her employment contract, she is in a situation of total unemployment, and therefore, she does not meet the requirements to be entitled to it. In that case, it will be suspended until she is working again. This does not, however, affect large families (three or more children) or families with disabled children.

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Scottish Christmas Bubbles

SCOTLAND has announced an eight­person limit for Christ­ mas ‘bubbles’ of three house­ holds which should contain no more than eight people over the age of 11. Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has an­ nounced the new rule as part of the government’s guid­ ance which temporarily re­ laxes some Covid­19 restric­ tions for five days over Christmas. The easing of Covid rules, which also states that chil­ dren under the age of 12 do not count towards the total number of people in the bub­ ble, will apply across the UK from December 23 to 27. A UK­wide deal was agreed on Tuesday, November 24, to permit people to meet up in ‘bubbles’ over the festive pe­ riod, with travel restrictions also being lifted across all four home nations. However, Nicola Sturgeon has said the “default advice” and “safest position” was still that people should avoid contact, with the “safest way to spend Christmas and the festive period [being] to stay

STURGEON: ‘Stay at home.’

within your own household, in your own home and your own local area.”

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Brave Grandma Fights Off Burglar MICHELINE STEPHEN, known as Michelle to her friends, fought off a burglar only two days before her 90th birthday. Micheline, from Cupar in Fife, Scotland, walked into her kitchen on November 20, to find someone there. She initially thought it was her grandson, before soon re­ alising that someone had bro­

easyJet Bookings Rise ACCORDING to the airline’s chief executive Johan Lund­ gren, easyJet saw bookings rise last week compared to the previous week, albeit starting from a low base. Under the current lockdown restrictions, only essen­ tial travel is permitted, however, the UK is due to relax them as the end of England’s second lockdown draws near. easyJet said bookings for flights from London and Bristol to Belfast and Edinburgh had gone up as Christ­ mas flight restrictions are also set to be eased further across the UK allowing families to mix for five days. In a statement on Thursday, November 26, Lundgren said: “We know underlying demand is there, which we see every time travel restrictions are lifted. “We continue to closely review our flying pro­ gramme to ensure we are aligning our schedule with customer demand,” he concluded.

ken into her house. According to Edinburgh Live, Micheline “tried to yank him by the rucksack he was wearing to stop him escaping through her window calling him a ‘wee sh**e,’ but he managed to get away.”

The grandma originally born in France has not let the rob­ bery phase her, although she is worried that the robber may strike another house in the area. “How dare he come to an old person’s home to do that? “I’m old, but some people

are much worse than I am and would not have put up a fight. “I want other people to stay vigilant.” The robber made off with Micheline’s lighter and ciga­ rettes and police investigations continue.

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NEWS

UK 5G 14 women rescued Off duty and

THE engineering hub, set to be built by the IT and business consultancy CGI in ESA­ECSAT at the Harwell Campus in Ox­ fordshire, is being backed by over £3 million (€3.3 million) of government investment and due for completion in 2021. Providing a base for UK re­ searchers and businesses to experiment, the new 5G hub ­ eventually planned to extend across the entire Harwell cam­ pus ­ will provide a testing fa­ cility that can show the bene­ fits of hybrid 5G and satellite communications networks. The hope is that once the technology is demonstrated the techniques can be rolled out to other businesses across the UK. In October, three UK em­ ployers pledged to create 5,000 tech­related jobs. Lib­ erty Global, the owner of Virgin Media, and O2’s par­ ent, Telefónica, unveiled plans to create 4,000 jobs in the UK and another 1,000 apprenticeships to acceler­ ate the rollout of 5G.

OFFICERS of National Police have rescued 14 women from continuing to be used for sexual exploitation, after carrying out around 12 raids, seven in the region of Murcia, two in Ali­ cante, two in Almeria and one in Valencia, all linked to the hu­ man trafficking ring and recov­ ered €90,000 in cash. Also seized were five high­ end vehicles, three hunting shot­ guns, two other firearms, as well as cocaine and marihuana pre­ pared for sale. The victims were forced to work 12 hours every day and, in the case of becoming ill and un­ able to work, they racked up €400 of debt to the gang and wanting to rest or shower

still saving

SEX VICTIMS: Were forced to work 12 hours every day. meant fines of up to €200. The operation culminated in nine of the 20 arrested going to prison, the precautionary clo­ sure of six establishments raid­

ed, which were used to carry out the sexual exploitation activ­ ities, as well as the release and assistance of 14 women victims from the gang.

Spain Christmas Warning HEALTH experts in Alicante have warned that if citizens fail to comply with safety measures during the festive season there is a real possibility that Spain could see a third coronavirus wave in January and February, and even the delivery of Covid­19 vaccines could be jeopardised. The president of the Official College of Physicians of Alicante, Maria Isabel Moya said that over the Christmas holidays people must comply with the maximum number guidelines and avoid “risky parties” as “they cannot be an exception.” She added that it is not so much about a specific number of people, but rather of complying with all safety measures, such as wearing masks, using hand sani­ tiser frequently and socially distancing.

PROVING that you’re never really off duty when your vocation is to help and protect people, an Alicante police officer stopped on his way home from work on Thursday, November 26 when he saw a commo­ tion at the side of the road. There he discovered a man lying unre­ sponsive on the ground with another person trying to resuscitate him. The individual, performing CPR, was actually an off­duty health work­ er who had also just happened on the emergency. The health worker and the police officer used a defibrillator on the victim and continued to take turns performing CPR while waiting for emergency services to arrive. The 54­year­old man began to breathe on his own moments before the ambulance arrived and transferred him to Alicante General Hospital, where he is recovering well. The coordination between the two off­duty professionals and their rapid responses has been attributed with saving the man’s life.

Low transmitters CHILDREN are low transmit­ ters of Covid and less than 10 per cent spread it to rela­ tives, according to re­ searchers. A new study by Vall d’Hebron Hospital in Barcelona claims children are not high transmitters of coronavirus, and only 8 per cent pass it on to mem­

bers of their families. Of the 1,081 minors under the age of 18 with confirmed Covid studied between July 1 and October 31, 86 were found to have transmitted the coronavirus within their family nucleus. Around 100 primary care pediatricians helped conduct the research.

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3 - 9 December 2020

Bar Becomes Church JAMES ASPELL, aged 34, thinks he has found the perfect way to keep his bar, named 400 Rabbits Tequila and Mexcal Cocktail Bar open this Christmas, despite the Covid19 restrictions that are in place in the Nottingham area. James has completed the necessary paperwork in the hopes that his bar can become a religion. The current rules mean that places of worship are permitted to open, although in Tier 3, mixing or attending with others outside your support bubble or house-

NEW IDEA: Places of worship can open.

hold is not permitted. The 400 Rabbits Bar took to Facebook and said, “With places of worship allowed to open in all tiers we thought let’s start a religion! Can’t be that hard can it? 'The Church of

the 400 Rabbits’ launching as soon as we get the green light! “Congregation daily til late. Give us this day our daily #mezcal.” All that James is lacking now, is the congregation.

Three Kings Go Digital ALICANTE City Council presented its programme of Christmas activities on Friday, November 27, marked by anti-coronavirus measures. One of the most radical changes for 2020, the mayor of Fiestas Manuel Jimenez has explained, is that the arrival of the Three Kings at the port of Alicante on December 5 will be streamed through the council’s social media networks, with people able to follow their route through the comfort of their homes. In addition, Santa’s Grotto will be installed in the Seneca Plaza from December 4, and chil-

dren can drop their Christmas letters at Gabriel Miró Plaza between January 1 and 5. These activities are strictly by pre-appointment only, which can be reserved on the city council’s website. Seneca Plaza will also host its traditional Christmas market until January 10, with the usual craft stalls on Federico Soto Avenue. Alicante will have a stunning new addition this festive season, with ‘The Christmas Door’ being installed in the Esplanade to welcome visitors to the city.

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CARLOS BAOS WE CAN HELP YOU IN today’s article we are go­ ing to talk about bank claims: court costs and payment of external agency fees as re­ cent judgements by the Spanish Supreme Court (SC) have ruled on these matters. The bank must always pay the costs when a claim is ac­ cepted. We highlight judgement number 472/2020 of Septem­ ber 17, 2020 of the TS. In it, the SC states that when a claim from a con­ sumer is accepted, the bank must always pay the entire costs of the court process. Al­ though there are some doubts in law there is an ex­ ception, which allows, that costs are not imposed on whoever loses the court case, if there are doubts about law, or different criteria from dif­

FEATURE

Legal claims against banks New rulings of the Supreme Court ferent courts, etc. However, the SC has indi­ cated that the decision should be based on two principles: 1. The non­binding of con­ sumers to abusive clauses. 2. The dissuasive effect of the use of abusive clauses in contracts with consumers The concept is that if the bank is not forced to pay the consumer’s legal costs despite the court having ruled against the bank, the consumer would suffer a loss and in ad­ dition, there could be a ‘re­ verse dissuasive effect.’ In other words, the banks could continue to impose un­ fair terms assuming that con­ sumers would be unlikely to claim in defence of their rights for small amounts. The Supreme Court changes its criteria regarding the payment of management

expenses. To date, the SC had indicat­ ed (in its most recent prece­ dents) that the notary and agency expenses (for the reg­ istration of mortgage loans at the land registry) had to be paid equally on a 50 per cent basis by the bank and clients whilst the land registry ex­ penses had to be paid in full by the bank. Today, we highlight the re­ cent ruling number 555/2020 of October 26, 2020 in which the SC has changed that crite­ ria. Now, it points out, that its previous view, of payment of 50 per cent towards agency costs, does not conform to the doctrine of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) for the following reasons: 1. Before Law 15/2019, there was no provision in Spanish law about who should

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) - White&Baos Tel: +34 966 426 185 info@white-baos.com White & Baos 2020- All Rights Reserved.

pay the agency expenses. 2. The lack of regulation, imposing the obligation of payment to the client, must mean that. 3. The banks must pay for it and therefore, must refund everything charged for this work. Conclusion The Spanish Supreme Court is rectifying some of its crite­ ria. Let’s hope that other cri­ teria that we believe to be er­ roneous will change, such as their interpretation of the IRPH. We hope that this article on bank claims: court costs and payment of the agency fee has been helpful. You can consult our banking law ser­ vices on our website, and if you need expert advice, on these matters Contact us www.white­baos.com.

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Cheaper tests to encourage travel EASYJET and easyJet holidays announced on Monday, November 30, that they have partnered with two testing firms, Confirm Testing and City Doc, as the airline is continuing to explore ways of working with different governments and industry partners to test the efficacy of more rapid testing. The partnerships mean that preferential prices can be accessed for both companies using a unique code provided when they book

through the easyJet.com and easyJet.com/holidays sites. Customers will receive a reduced rate of £75 (€84) per home test with Confirm Testing or £100 (€111) per home test or £150 (€167) for an in-clinic test with CityDoc. Both testing companies aim to provide results within 48 hours of the test being returned to them. Confirm Testing is managed via Royal Mail and their Priority Postboxes and CityDoc offer a courier

service. easyJet is also working to identify suppliers in Europe to be able to provide this across its network. Testing has become a requirement for entry for a number of easyJet’s key destinations such as Germany, Spain and Italy. and so this partnership is focused on helping customers get their required test ahead of travel more conveniently and at more affordable rates.

Break down, just flash TRIANGLES have been part of breaking down for years, but in the DGT shake up, their time could be up. The DGT traffic authority of Spain has decided that a flashing light on the roof of a car, at­ tached by a magnet is a far safer idea and will be a substitute for the customary triangle. Before this measure, deemed safer by the DGT, it was neces­ sary to get out of the car, assem­ ble the triangle and place behind the car at some distance so as to warn others your vehicle was there and had broken down. The DGT now agree that this endangers the life of the mo­

BREAK DOWN: Just show a flashing light in future. torist in the sense that it’s possi­ ble the driver could be run over by another vehicle. Hence, the light on top of the car is the way forward. Its use will not be mandatory until January 2024, and it is not sure who will manufacture the

emergency light and how much it will cost but it’s expected to be around €40. The device will be able to con­ nect to your mobile phone to ask for assistance by way of con­ necting to an emergency net­ work.

SONY PS 5 OR A GRILL? AMAZON has recently apologised for a mix up in orders which meant several other customers received cat food, an electric grill and a foot massager instead of the prized all-new Sony PS 5 console. Social media is awash with stories of long queues and increased waiting times as fans of gaming anticipated the delivery of their new console. Websites were crashing and almost all retailers claimed they were out of stock. Amazon said it was dealing with several complaints where it’s believed some users may have had consoles stolen, although there was no proof of this. Amazon pointed out customers did have a support line they could call.

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First Golden Eagle Spotted prey is indeed a LOCALS are optimistic for the re­ golden eagle, turn of the species after the and said, “When first Golden Eagle was spot­ golden eagles are ted in the skies of Albox in young, the first year Almeria. they have very character­ The sighting has istic plumage. Looking at been confirmed them from below they as a young eagle, have two white wing that leaves locals opti­ spots that are mistic that the very notice­ species has re­ GOLDEN EAGLE: Is a able, and they turned. There has al­ protected species. also have a so been an adult small white stripe on the tail.” golden eagle spotted in the same The Golden Eagle is a protect­ area. ed species and sightings have Elena Jiménez, a graduate in been reported to the authorities Environmental Sciences tells us to help ensure the birds’ safety. how to confirm that the bird of

Costa Blanca millionaire

A NEW overnight millionaire was declared in Murcia as one winner on Tuesday, November 24’s Euromillions was drawn. Overall, Spain had a successful lotto week with lucky winners of the second category based in Sagunto in Valencia and Alfaro in Valencia scooping an impressive €176,840.50 each. The winning ticket for the million euros was purchased in Águilas in Murcia and carries the code: GSB80134.

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Fine exchange THE number of offenders who swap fines for cleaning the streets in Madrid has skyrocket­ ed by 66.8 per cent since Sep­ tember 2019. According to the city council, the profile of the offender who typically opts for community type work as opposed to paying a fine is male, aged between 18 and 29, of Madrid origin and studying at university. And the highest number of fines exchanged for cleaning in this programme are the result of urinating on public roads, an of­ fence classified as ‘serious’ which carries a fine of €751. The city council wants to pro­ mote these exchanges to “achieve greater awareness of citizens about the importance of keeping the capital clean. “The Substitute Environmental Provision (PAS) programme man­ aged by the Environment and Mobility Area has progressively more followers,” said its manag­ er, Borja Carabante. He added: “Participation has increased by 66.8 per cent since September 2019.”

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First of its kind MADRID is to open Spain’s first centre for homeless women who are victims of gender violence in 2021. The centre will have up to 40 places and will combine the care received by homeless people with that provided to women who have suffered sexist violence. Madrid City Council has sup­ ported 832 women and their children in the Municipal Net­

work of Attention to Victims of Gender Violence in 2020, twice as many as in 2019. Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez­Almeida, reiterated the “firm and unwavering” commitment of the city coun­ cil to “develop public policies to fight against sexist vio­ lence.” He recalled the “41 women murdered in Spain so far this year, two of them in the Com­

munity of Madrid, which makes us reaffirm the firm and unwavering commitment”: Deputy mayor, Begoña Vil­ lacís, explained: “The new re­ source will be a reception cen­ tre to serve homeless women who are victims of gender vio­ lence, who are three times more likely to suffer this type of violence. “It the first centre of its kind in Spain and very necessary.”

Driving schools unable to reopen TEN per cent of driving schools have been unable to reopen since the start of the ‘new normal’ meaning that people taking lessons to obtain their driving licence were badly affected by the State of Alarm, lessons, both theoretical and practical, had to stop and exam dates were postponed. In May, the schools were able to reopen and the General Traffic Department resumed exams, but around 10 per cent remain closed. According to a report by Dribo in National Spanish newspaper 20minutos, 15 per cent of driving schools are in danger of having to shut

down because of waiting for exams unless they change their business plan and introduce online options. This would account for 1,300 driving centres across the country, without online learning techniques, driving schools could be facing losses of up to €3,500 per month. Dribo meanwhile, promotes digitalising driving lessons so that students do not have to physically go to a classroom. It is now working in 37 cities in Spain helping driving schools to modernise their methods to avoid closures.

Possible 100,000 jobs lost

GENERAL DIRECTOR of Seat, Mikel Palomera, warned on Tuesday, November 24, that thousands of jobs could be lost when the new registra­ tion tax comes into effect across Spain in January. In the New Year, 50 per TAX INCREASE: Will be a cent of cars on sale will have strong blow to the industry. to pay the registration tax, which will make them 4.75 per cent more expensive, thereby reducing demand, Palomera said. Speaking at the sixth Deia Automobile conference, the CEO of Fiat Chrysler, Alberto de Aza explained that a tax increase, de­ rived from the application of the WLTP, would be “a very strong blow,” which will translate into “a fall in demand” and will have “without any doubt, an impact in employment and, ultimately, in the economy.” The WLTP procedure ( World Harmonised Light­duty Vehicle Test Procedure ) is a global standard for determining the levels of pollutants, CO2 emissions and fuel consumption of tradition­ al cars, hybrids, and pure electric cars.

Teeside to Spain RYANAIR announced on Wednesday, November 25, that it is returning to Teesside in sum­ mer 2021 with the launch of two routes to Alicante and Mallorca, both operating two flights per week, commencing on June 1, 2021, as part of their British

summer 2021 schedule. British consumers and visitors can now book a summer break to Alicante and Mallorca ­ two of Spain’s most popular beach des­ tinations ­ as far away as October 2021, always flying on the lowest fares.

NEWS

Convicted terrorist citizenship revoked HOME MINISTER Peter Dut­ ton announced on Wednes­ day, November 25 his decision to revoke the citizenship of Al­ gerian­born convicted terrorist Abdul Nacer Benbrika, also known as Abu Bakr. He was jailed in 2005 for 15 years, after originally being ar­ rested with 17 other suspect­ ed terrorists, when multiple plots were uncovered to bomb Australian landmarks in Sydney. Bakr was considered to be the spiritual leader of those arrested. He has 90 days to appeal the cancellation of his visa and his deportation to Algeria. Speaking to international media reporter in Brisbane, Dutton said, “If it’s a person who’s posing a significant ter­ rorist threat to our country, then we’ll do whatever is pos­ sible within Australian law to protect Australians.”

FEATURE

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EUROPEAN NIBS DENMARK

GERMANY

Little Mermaid

Scalped

ALTHOUGH sculptor Edvard Eriksen has been dead for 61 years, his Little Mermaid in Copenhagen is protected by copyright until 2030 and his heirs have won damages of Kr285,000 (€38,300) against newspaper Berlingske which used a zombified image on its front page.

AFTER six years of discussion and the involvement of the US State Department, the Karl May museum, dedicated to the German writer of westerns has agreed to repatriate to America a scalp which may have been taken from a member of the Chippewa tribe.

NETHERLANDS Uber frustrated THE ‘mini cab’ company Uber has been told by the Dutch jobs’ agency UWV that it may not sack 10 workers at its Amsterdam Head Office who refused to apply for redundancy when it wanted to lose 200 workers since it had acted improperly.

BELGIUM New blinds A MAN from Diepenbeek who claimed he was taking a shot of the moon has been given a 12-month suspended sentence, ordered to pay €1,500 and purchase new blinds and curtains for his neighbour after he was convicted of photographing her in the nude.

FRANCE Eco-Museum BRITISH sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor who specialises in under water installations has produced six giant heads which have been sunk to the bottom of the sea off the coast of Cannes to create what is described as Europe’s first ‘eco-museum.’

NORWAY Electric VAT FOLLOWING years of promoting the purchase of electric cars, Norway’s politicians are considering returning to a 25 per cent tax on all electric cars which cost more than Nk600,000 (€56,700) which would hurt brands like Mercedes and Tesla.

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Advertising Feature

WHAT LEGAL DOCUMENTS CAN HELP PROTECT YOUR ASSETS?

THE Spanish judicial system has different legal structures in place, to ensure that the wishes of an individual’s will are met, should they suffer (in the future) from an illness or any situation that impedes their ability or capacity to express their wishes (for example: Alzheimer’s, stroke, etc). Preventive powers, custody order or a last Will and testament are the most known and used. 1) PREVENTIVE POWERS This is a notarial document that allows a person to appoint another person, to act on their behalf and in their best interests, if they were to lack the ability to express their own wishes. One of the great advantages of signing this power is for managing the assets of the incapable person, without resorting to incapacitation judicial proceedings. Different types of preventive powers: A) Using the power from the moment in which the grantor / representative suffers from a disabili­ ty. B) Using the power from the time of signing. This is used more frequently, particularly with dis­ eases when the transition to ‘state of incapacity’ is difficult to assess.

How is a preventive power drafted? Drafting and revising it by an Attorney / Legal Advisor / Notary clearly specifying what powers are allowed, together with a registered and au­ thorised signature before the notary. 2) THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT The advance directive is a legal formula by which a person states what level of medical inter­ vention/ healthcare they want, if they are deemed to be in a state in which they are unable to express their wishes. This can be a privately signed document (for example in a law firm, pro­ vided with two witnesses) which has to be regis­ tered in the Registry of last wishes, or before a Public Notary. What kind of content / information is usually included in this document? A) The medical treatment you wish to receive; or not receive. This document is frequently signed in relation to the rejection of all medical interven­ tion, to be kept alive artificially. B) Appointment of one or more representa­ tives, for the purpose of communicating the wish­ es to the medical team. C) Donation of organs.

PELLICER & HEREDIA C/San Fernando, 46-1º izda. Alicante 03001 info@pellicerheredia.com Tel : 965 480 737 Offices in Alicante-Hondón de las Nieves-Ciudad Quesada-Jávea-Moraira

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NEWS

Ban on Tate Modern Evictions Attacker Appeal THE attacker that threw a six­ year­old boy off the viewing platform of the Tate Modern is set to appeal his sentence. The horrifying attack took place last year in August when Jonty Bravery, 19, went through with his plan to throw a stranger from the platform and get in the news. Jonty selected the boy after spending some time on the platform before choosing who would be his victim.

The boy suffered exten­ sive injuries from the fall which the side of the Tate Modern only partially broke, before landing on the roof of the fifth floor. The injuries sustained in­ cluded spinal damage. The magistrate court has been told that Jonty will appeal the decision to send him to prison, as he believes that he should be at Broadmoor Hospital instead of in prison.

Youth Covid Fund THE UK government announced a £16.5 million (€18.5 million) youth covid­19 support fund on Wednesday, November 25, that will be open to grassroots youth clubs, uniformed youth groups, and national youth and umbrella organisations. It will help to miti­ gate the impact of lost income during the winter period due to the coronavirus pandemic and ensure services providing vital support can remain open. The funding will be allocated from the government’s unprece­ dented £750 million (€842 million) package of support which is benefiting tens of thousands of frontline charities, so they can con­ tinue their vital work.

THE Spanish government is to announce measures to ban evic­ tions without alternative hous­ ing for the most vulnerable. Second vice president and minister of Social Affairs and the 2030 Agenda, Pablo Iglesias (Podemos), revealed in Congress: “In the coming days, I hope that we do not take more than two weeks, the government will pre­ sent a measure to avoid evictions without housing alternative for vulnerable people.” Iglesias stressed that evictions of vulnerable families “continue to occur in the middle of the sec­ ond wave of the pandemic,” be­ cause the decree in force at the moment “does not have the ca­ pacity to stop it.” For this reason, he said, the Ex­ ecutive is working “to end all evictions during this emergency. “My job is to ensure the gov­ ernment’s social policy and com­ pliance with the agenda, there­ fore, I have to do everything in my power to prevent any family from being evicted from their home during a pandemic like the one we are experiencing.”

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Lucky Friday 13th Good Samaritan A GOOD Samaritan living in AlmoradI, Alicante, found an envelope stuffed with €2,000 on Friday, November 13 and Local Police were able to track down the owner of the notes later that same day. The lucky find was made right in the heart of AlmoradI where crowds of people were passing. The honest woman was walking on a pedestri­ an crossing when she spotted the thick envelope full of notes, and decided it was best to hand it in­

to the nearby town hall. Earlier that morning, a frantic local had reported the cash missing after he had withdrawn it and it didn’t take police long to verify that he was the owner of the money and re­ turn it to him. The Chief of the Almoradi Police highlighted the honesty of woman and pointed out that returning what one finds (especially if what you find is mon­ ey) remains an exceptional fact.

Anger over Christmas lights THE Christmas lights are on across Spain, but social media has been lit up with outrage over the crowds that gathered to see them in cities such as Madrid and Malaga. Despite the coronavirus pan­ demic and requests from the au­ thorities not to gather in crowds,

images from both cities show crowded streets with hundreds of people, none of whom were social distancing. In Madrid, the Puerta del Sol and Callao area was packed with people on Saturday, November 28, from dusk, prepared to see the lights come on. In Calle Larios,

Malaga, similar scenes were ob­ served. Coinciding also with Black Friday, many people packed into stores and shopping centres be­ fore the early closing time. Mala­ ga Town Hall’s plan to keep the official light­up time a secret, did little good, as people gathered in the area anyway.

NEWS

Celeb company to sanctuary

POP icon Cher has travelled to Pakistan to accompany the world’s ‘loneliest’ elephant in his journey to a long awaited sanc­ tuary in Cambodia. The singer met with Pakistani PM Imran Khan in the capital Is­ lamabad, where she tweeted her thanks to the government ‘for making it possible for me to take Kaavan to Cambodia.’ Kaavan has been the subject of extensive animal rights cam­ paigns for years due to the dire conditions he has endured for 35 years in the city’s Marghazar Zoo which has since been or­ dered to close. According to Dr Amir Khalil, a vet at Four Paws International who have been campaigning for Kaavan since 2016, the elephant

CHER: Will travel to Cambodia with Kaavan the elephant.

is both overweight and mal­ nourished and exhibits behav­ ioural problems associated with intense boredom and isolation. His partner died in 2012 when one of her wounds got gan­ grene, and her body remained in Kaavan’s filthy enclosure for days after her death. Khalil says the elephant was ‘heartbroken’

after his partner’s death. Cher will accompany his transfer to a wildlife sanctuary in Cambodia, where he is expected to finish out his days with a much higher quality of life. The popstar said she is currently making a documentary about the elephant, promising it will be ‘heartwarming.’

Valencia’s Wettest November

STORM: Added to the record rainfall for November.

ACCORDING to the Valencia Observatory of the State Meteoro­ logical Agency (Aemet), November 2020 has been the wettest month in the city for 64 years, with an accumulated rainfall of 238.4 litres per square metre. The last time rainfall came close to this figure was in November 1957, when 298.2 litres fell. In addition, with the storm on Friday, November 27, the Va­ lencian region has recorded this month as the third wettest since 2000. Including the torrential rain in the 11th month, the entire province has accumulated a total of 556.7 litres per square me­ tre in 2020.

More than 30 different dimensions of pine timber in green, brown and thermo treated. Biggest selection of high quality joists, beams, t/g boards, planks and decking boards. You have never seen such a large selection. All planed and round edges.

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Eurostar needs support THE cross­Channel rail operator has appealed to the UK govern­ ment for more financial support as it has been forced to slash its timetables since travel restric­ tions have drastically reduced their customers. Before the pandemic Eurostar ran more than 50 services a day; it is currently operating only one train between London and Paris, and one between London and Amsterdam. Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union general secretary Mick Cash said: “RMT is calling on the government to

Financial support needed. step in immediately to give life­ line financial support for the im­ portant international infrastruc­ ture role fulfilled by Eurostar and the thousands of jobs supported

both directly and indirectly by the service.” Eurostar has criticised the gov­ ernment for treating the rail op­ eration unfairly, after it an­ nounced on Tuesday, November 24 that up to £8 million of busi­ ness liabilities at each major Eng­ lish airport will be covered. In a statement Eurostar said: “The new scheme of rates relief for airports puts Eurostar at a di­ rect disadvantage against its air­ line competitors. We would ask this scheme to be extended to in­ clude international rail services.”

Paramedics on e-bikes TWELVE London Ambulance Service para­ medics are taking part in a new London trial which sees medics deliver care in the com­ munity on electric bikes. The six month Merton pilot aims to take pressure off GPs by providing home care to patients for a range of ailments, including those who have been diagnosed with coronavirus. Khadir Meer, chief operating officer at LAS, said: “Winter is an extremely busy time for our health service and with the ex­ ceptional year we have had, we hope this

pilot will help relieve pressure on GP surg­ eries and ensure ambulances go where they are most needed. “Nobody wants to go to hospital unless they have to and with finite resources, our highly­skilled clinicians are well placed to assess whether patients need care at home or if hospital treatment is required.” Merton Health says another benefit to this pilot is that medics can spend more than the average GP time of 10 minutes with patients.

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NEWS

Wetherspoons to remain shut JD WETHERSPOON has announced that 315 of its pubs will stay shut due to the tiered coronavirus lockdown restrictions announced for England by the govern­ ment. “It is very disappointing that yet an­ other raft of regulations has been intro­ duced, which has effectively closed half our pubs,” said Tim Martin, the pub group’s chairman. In total, 366 pubs will now remain closed of which most are in Tier­3 zones in England and 51 in Northern Ireland and Scotland, said the FTSE 250 group. The government has said that every­ where in England, bar Cornwall and the

Isles of Scilly and Wight, is in the highest risk Tier­2 and Tier­3 categories. Opening just for takeaways, which is one of the Tier­3 rules, is ‘unlikely to be a realistic proposition’ said the pub chain. Wetherspoons noted that it has 435 pubs in Tier­2 areas which will open, including 17 pubs in Scotland. A further 13 pubs in England are classi­ fied as Tier­1 with a further 51 in Wales under an approximate low­risk classifica­ tion. In his statement, Martin said: “The company has campaigned for pubs to re­ vert to the rules agreed between the pub industry, civil servants, local authorities

Queen Letizia Opens Summit IN the absence of husband King Felipe, who is self­isolating with symptoms of coronavirus, Queen Letizia of Spain stepped forward on Thursday, November 26, to open the first­ever Tourism & In­ novation Summit, in Sevilla, which after Barcelona and Madrid, is the city with the biggest influx of tourism normally.

Five thousand professionals from the tourism industry, and technology markets, are expect­ ed to attend this event, in what is hoped will become a regular in­ ternational forum for the tourism business in Spain. A minute’s silence took place at the start, to mark International Day Against Domestic Violence, after which, the Queen went on to speak about the damage the current pandemic has done to Spain’s tourism industry, and how she hopes this inaugural summit will, “provide more ele­ ments of analysis to continue ex­ panding and strengthening the tourism value chain, and its ca­ pacity to generate employment and revalue socio­economic ecosystems.

and health officials, which were intro­ duced when pubs reopened in July. “These rules greatly reduced pub ca­ pacity and provided strict social dis­ tancing and hygiene standards but, with difficultly, allowed pubs to trade viably. It is very disappointing that yet another raft of regulations has been in­ troduced, which has effectively closed half our pubs. “In reality, the government has extend­ ed a form of lockdown, by stealth, in large swathes of the country,” Martin added that there was no evidence about the transmission of the coronavirus in pubs.

Family doctor A FAMILY doctor who was about to retire has died of coronavirus in Sevilla. Pedro Fernández Casa­ do, 66, was diagnosed several weeks ago and spent 20 days in ICU at Virgen del Rocío Hospital before his health deterio­ The doctor spent 20 days rated and he died on Fri­ in the ICU. day, November 27. The Medical Union of Sevilla said in a statement: “He contracted the virus in the days when he was considering his retirement.” Earlier this month, Sevillian health worker Gabriel Castillo, died from coronavirus. There have now been four deaths from Covid­19 of health workers in Sevilla since the start of the pandemic.

Cop leaves hospital A POLICEMAN run over by drug traffickers in Algeciras in Cadiz

Province finally left hospital af­ ter three months, having spent six weeks in ICU. Inspector Francisco Javier was part of an operation to in­ tercept a high­end vehicle stolen in Marbella on the Costa del Sol which was carrying a cache of 16 drug bundles col­ lected in Punta Carnero. The fleeing vehicle rammed his patrol car on September 5, causing it to overturn, leaving the officer with ‘serious in­ juries.’ On Friday morning, Novem­ ber 27, he was finally dis­ charged where colleagues and nurses surrounded his bedside as he prepared to return home. The National Police tweeted: “Congratulations! Our comrade Francisco Javier, inspector who was run over by a drug dealer, left the hospital in #Getafe (#Madrid) today and returned to #Algeciras. Plenty of encour­ agement.”

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FEATURE

Advertising Feature

Avalon wins award for ‘Best Funeral Plan Provider’ for the second year in a row at this year’s Personal Finance Awards AVALON FUNERAL PLANS is celebrating a cov­ eted award win after being named ‘Best Fu­ neral Plan Provider’ at the 2020/21 Personal Finance Awards for the second year running. Now in its 23rd year, the Personal Finance Awards has long been recognised as a bench­ mark for excellence in the consumer finance market. Voted for by 20,000 consumers based on their experience of outstanding products or customer service in the industry, it reflects their choice of the top financial providers. With 26 years’ experience providing funeral plans to more than 85,000 customers across the UK and Europe, this award recognises Aval­ on’s dedication to caring for its customers, as well as the high standard of its range of funeral plans, in what has been a very unique and challenging year for all. Avalon lead the funeral planning industry in exceptional customer feedback, with over 2,500 reviews and a rating of ‘excellent’ on Trustpilot, as well as a five­star rating on De­ faqto. Time and time again, expats and their

families thank the team at Avalon for providing peace of mind with their funeral plans and their care and compassion at what can be a very difficult time. Customers like Anne, living in Spain: “I want to thank Mike from the bottom of my heart for his sincerity, calmness and the sympathetic way he was able to make the whole process so easy and stress free. Living in Spain is daunting when you lose a loved one. Mike took away all the weight and worry off myself and my family.” Avalon is the fastest growing provider of fu­ neral plans for expats in Europe, providing spe­ cialist expat plans in Spain, the Canaries, Portu­

gal and Cyprus. Avalon funeral plans are spe­ cially designed to help make planning your fu­ neral as an expat simple, with unique features compared to other providers. Their team pro­ vide local support for customers and their fam­ ilies, working with independent Funeral Direc­ tors in the country. They can also provide repatriation if expats would prefer to have a funeral back in the UK. Their 24/7 English­speaking expat bereave­ ment helpline is of vital support for families when the time comes, particularly in countries where the funeral process can be unfamiliar and complicated. For example, funerals in the EU can happen within 24­48 hours and there is the language barrier to contend with. The company has also adapted quickly to the challenges of this year and customers can now speak to a specialist funeral plan advisor in the comfort of their own home face to face, or via a video consultation, as well as over the phone and online. The award win follows a challenging year for

expats and companies providing services to ex­ pats alike, as they faced the Coronavirus pan­ demic. Speaking about the award win, Aval­ on’s CEO, Susan Stevenson, said: “We are so proud to have won this award in a year when our colleagues and funeral direc­ tor partners have faced the unique challenge of maintaining a high standard of exceptional care for our customers and their families amidst a global pandemic. “We like to think we’re different to other fu­ neral plan providers in that we go the extra mile in helping customers and their loved ones when they perhaps need it most and have re­ ally shown this to be true this year. We have supported thousands of bereaved families throughout 2020 with the same level of care and compassion that has come to be expected of us. “The fact that we’ve been recognised for our efforts ­ particularly by such a widely renowned awarding body as the Personal Fi­ nance Awards ­ really means the world to us.”

Regulated in the UK by the Funeral Planning Authority (FPA), Avalon operates across the UK, Spain, the Canaries, Portugal and Cyprus. For more information, visit www.avalonfuneralplans.com or call +34 966 799 070

NEWS

www.euroweeklynews.com

3 - 9 December 2020

Advertising Feature

Hungry Jacks - delicious frozen meals delivered to your door HUNGRY JACKS Food 2 You, sis­ ter company of Fishy Fishy in Moraira, has been trading six months now preparing individ­ ual size portions of frozen meals for delivery direct to your home. The feedback regarding the quality and convenience of the meals and delivery has been fantastic and the range of food is increasing month by month, with weekly specials too. Locally sourced ingredients are used wherever possible to create your favourite meals. And the latest new addition of Liver and Bacon with Onion Gravy has been greatly received by existing and new clients alike. All the products are single­ serve portions as many of Hun­ gry Jack customers are people living on their own or people with a busy schedule, so getting your favourite meal out of the freezer, then once defrosted popping it in the microwave or oven is easy as pie!! Another great concept of Hungry Jacks is that meals are delivered to your home FREE OF CHARGE (when spending over €20) and you will receive a free bottle of wine with your first or­ der. Some of Hungry Jack’s best­ sellers are:­ Cottage Pie Thai Green Chicken Curry Beef with Red Wine Stew Fishy Fish Pie Sticky Toffee Pudding

HOME-MADE: Individual size portions of your favourite meals.

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Cash or card payments are ac­ cepted on delivery or you can pre­order and collect at your convenience from Fishy Fishy in Moraira.

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NEWS

Crown’s Fiction Warning THE brother of Princess Diana has joined calls from the Culture Secretary for Netflix to include a ‘fiction warning’ on its hit Royal family drama ‘the Crown.’ Earl Spencer, says that he thinks it ‘would help the Crown enormously if, at the beginning of each episode, it stated that this isn’t true, but is based around some real events,’ adding that he is worried some viewers will take the presentation of Royal affairs ‘as gospel.’ The latest series of Netflix’s smash hit series has taken heat

‘A hatchet job on Diana.’ for its portrayal of the relation­ ship breakdown between Prince Charles and Diana. Oliver Dowden, the Culture Secretary, warned that he fears an entire ‘generation of viewers

who did not live through these events may mistake fiction for fact.’ He described the popular drama a ‘beautifully produced work of fiction’ that should be ‘very clear at the beginning it is just that.’ Former Buckingham palace Press Secretary Diana Arbiter was less diplomatic in her criticism of the show, accusing the show’s producers of ‘stretching dramatic licence to the extreme.’ She ac­ cused the writers of scripting a ‘hatchet job on Charles and a bit of hatchet job on Diana.’

Young Food Ambassadors THE minister and a group of seven of the Young Food Ambassadors for the Children’s Right2Food Campaign were joined by their Ambassador Dame Emma Thompson and Food Foundation Executive Director Anna Taylor for a Zoom meeting on Thurs­ day, November 26, where they spoke about their shared ambition to tackle childhood obesity and improve access to nutritious meals for all children, especially those most disadvantaged. It follows the government’s announcement of a £170 million (€189 million) support package for the most vulnerable over winter and the expansion of

the £220 million (€245 million) Holiday Activities and Food programme to cover Easter, summer and Christmas in 2021. The minister spoke to the Young Ambassadors about their experiences of healthy eating at school and encouraged them to work with the govern­ ments from across the four nations to promote this. She also invited Dame Emma to visit a Holiday Activities and Food project next summer after the expanded programme has been rolled out across England.

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‘Big Ben’ activist ‘EXTINCTION REBELLION’ activist Benjamin Atkinson, 44, scaled Big Ben’s tower and unfurled banners calling for ac­ tion on the climate emergency during a protest on October 18, 2019. He had been taking part in the demonstration outside the Palace of Westminster before he climbed over the fences and climbed the scaffolding of the Queen Elizabeth Tower. The tree surgeon from Ambleside, Cumbria, was up on the scaffolding for three hours while specialist police units from the protest removal team negotiated how to get him down. He had planned to do a live radio broadcast from the top of the tower, while wearing fancy dress, to “highlight gov­ ernment inaction on the climate and ecological emergency.” On coming down from the tower, Atkinson was arrested and then later charged with trespass on a protected site contrary to section 128 of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005. He was convicted on Wednesday, November 25, and sen­ tenced to 250 hours of unpaid work and handed fines of £865 (€970).

NEWS

Covid tests in Pharmacies

THE regional government of Madrid has proposed allowing pharmacies to carry out Covid19 tests from December, though this has yet to be agreed by the Ministry of Health. Minister of Health Enrique Ruiz Escudero said this would be a huge step forward “to continue the massive test strategy in our region.” Ministers have taken inspiration from Slovakia, who rolled out mass testing and have managed to contain the virus as a result. Before starting the test, a training course will be provided

Training course provided. to pharmacists. The Deputy Minister of Public Health, Antonio Zapatero, trusts that some 600 pharmacies can collaborate, which would mean being able to carry out “many tests.”

HOOKAH SMOKING FLOUTERS MALAGA Local Police cleared a cocktail bar of 14 customers who were caught drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking hookahs after the 6pm curfew. Two members of staff were also removed from the premises and the person in charge of the establishment was charged with breaching regulations regarding current closing hours and allowing the shared use of hookah pipes. The events took place at around 7pm, when the police requested entry to the premises, the doors of which were closed, and requested ID from everyone inside. Minutes later, they were charged with non-compliance of anti-coronavirus measures applicable in Andalucia, such as no more than six people at a table, not wearing masks, sharing the hookah pipes, which had apparently been prepared in the toilets, and opening after the 6pm curfew. After police cleared the cocktail bar of the customers and staff, the bar was closed and a report was filed with the competent authorities.

32,000 THEME JOBS GONE THE worrying trend, for all things entertainment to suffer first in the pandemic, continues as Walt Disney has announced 32,000 job losses from its theme parks. This follows on from a previous announcement that substantial amounts of jobs may have to go due to falling attendances and forced closures due to the pandemic. The layoffs will take place in the early part of 2021 Disney announced, and this follows losses of nearly $680 million (€569 million). Theme parks formed the bulk of that loss - however, its online subscription streaming service made further progress by achieving a 16 per cent increase in revenue.

FEATURE

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3 - 9 December 2020

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GO LOCAL THE EURO WEEKLY NEWS is urging its readers to support local businesses in the com­ munity by going local through the lockdown and for your Christmas shopping this year, instead of feeding online gi­ ants and superstores. This lockdown and festive period we challenge you to re­ discover your local high streets, markets, butchers, greengrocers and all of the wonderfully quirky indepen­ dent businesses in your area. Due to the Covid­19 pan­ demic, you may have to sup­ port many local businesses by ordering online and mak­ ing use of any click and collect services they can operate if you are unable to get out due to health reasons or lockdown re­ strictions.

The joy of shopping local means that independent busi­ nesses can help support the lo­ cal community. Although it may be a euro or

two cheaper elsewhere or on­ line, consider where your mon­ ey is actually going. By shop­ ping at an independent store

you’re putting food on a local family’s table, and there is no better time than Christmas to give back to

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FEATURE

BUY LOCAL: By shopping locally, independent businesses can help support the local community.

your community by making a small gesture and shopping in this way. Many local stores support lo­ cal charities, support and spon­ sor local sports teams and in many cases the small indepen­ dent stores are actually much more than just a small high street shop, they’re a family’s legacy, often passed down through numerous generations and support not just the current owner, but the generation be­ fore. For those stores which are

new, that extra couple of euros spent there are supporting someone’s dream and ambi­ tion, and also the courage it took them to step out alone, which is no easy task. It takes quite a large chunk of money to set up an independent store and compete with the multi­na­ tional and chains. So be sure to pre­order your turkey from a local butcher and get your spuds from a local greengrocer, let us revive that community spirit and get to know our neighbours again.

You could also consider pur­ chasing gift vouchers from local businesses to help them over the coming weeks, thinking out­ side the box can often lead to some fantastic ideas. Why not buy a meal for two, an hour’s tattoo time at a local studio, a hair cut at a local salon or an online study course for some­ one looking to change their ca­ reer path. As people are struggling with finances thinking about what friends and family may actually need is important too. Whilst it’s nice to give a glamourous gift perhaps pre­paying a family member’s phone bill for the month would actually be a bet­ ter gift. Helping people alleviate stress and worry, give the gift of peace of mind through these difficult times. Choosing to spend your mon­ ey locally will really make a dif­ ference in the recovery of the local economy. When we buy local, our money stays local,

and it strengthens the local economy in two ways. First, buying local keeps money circu­ lating within the local economy. Studies have shown that local businesses recirculate a greater share of every euro as they cre­ ate locally owned supply chains and invest in their employees. Data shows that local retail­ ers return 52 per cent of their revenue back into the local economy, compared to just 14 per cent for national chain re­ tailers. Money circulating through the local economy benefits everyone who is a part of each transaction. For example, let’s look at a local farmer growing produce. First, they sell to a local restaurant, which in turn pre­ pares the fresh produce and sells it to local customers. The farmer pays its local employees and the restaurant uses rev­ enue from sales to buy supplies from a neighbourhood hard­

FEATURE

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3 - 9 December 2020

BUYING LOCAL: Helps keep money circulating within the local economy.

ware store. This example illus­ trates how the recirculation of money in the local economy leads to a stronger financial foundation for our neighbours and communities.

Buying local also fuels new employment and job opportu­ nities for people within our community. Studies show, lo­ cally owned businesses employ more people per unit of sales

and retain more employees over time. While buying local is finan­ cially compelling to our com­ munities; the benefits to our environment are equally im­

pressive. Buying locally reduces the processing of goods, pack­ aging and transportation waste, which leads to less pollution. There’s a massive cultural shift underway redefining the

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way people make buying decisions. We’re seeing more individuals concerned about the envi­ ronment, about how products are made and sourced, where materials come from, and a compa­ ny’s overall social and environmental impact. Many businesses are joining our Go Local cam­ paign by offering customers special offers and dis­ counts throughout the festive period, more details to follow here soon. Just remember to follow the latest government advice and any guidance businesses have to keep everyone safe.

SPENDING LOCALLY: Will make a difference to the local economy.

FEATURE

FINANCE Christmas present AS there will be a temporary relaxation of UK Covid-19 rules to allow families to get together Marks & Spencer has announced that it will close on Boxing Day, normally one of the busiest shopping days of the year, so staff can enjoy two days off.

Madrid benefits THE exodus from Catalonia to Madrid continues, despite the fear of Covid-19 with some 433 companies relocating so far this year as they consider that their long-term financial health will be better in a centre with lower taxes and no calls for Independence.

Saturday delivery TO remain a sustainable business, Royal Mail has been advised by its regulator that if it cut out Saturday postal deliveries it would still be able to fulfil its obligations to consumers and save up to £225 million (€247 million) per year.

Finance round ONLINE Spanish employment agency Jobandtalent which concentrates on recruiting temporary workers, is looking to raise up to €60 million through a round of financing and if this is successful will be the largest startup funding raised this year.

OHL construction AS Spanish construction company OHL sees its losses increase to €114 million due to the impact of the pandemic, major shareholders, the Mexican Amodio brothers have allowed a share option to lapse. They currently own 16 per cent of the company (with Luis Amodio holding the post of President) and had an option to purchase a further 9 per cent from Grupo Villar Mir but as the current share price is lower than the option price, they have let it lapse.

STAT OF WEEK

€9.95 billion

is the amount of contributory Social Security benefits paid in Spain in November, an increase of 2.26 per cent over November 2019.

Fisheries funds

Bank Merger Called Off ON November 16, BBVA and Sabadell announced, after several months of speculation, that they were entering into talks with the intention of agreeing to a merger which would have creat­ ed the second strongest bank in Spain. Now, just two weeks later, both banks have ad­ vised the National Securi­ ties Market Commission (CNMV) that due to a number of serious stick­

ing points, they were un­ able to agree a basic un­ derstanding with regards to value of shares and therefore the proposed merger has been called off. Whilst organisations such as the European Central Bank and the Bank of Spain have made it clear that the current fi­ nancial situation calls for the strengthening of banks’ finances by merg­ er, this will not be the

LEGALLY SPEAKING

case for these two. BBVA is by far the stronger of the two banks and having recently sold its subsidiary in the USA for a reported €9.7 bil­ lion, it was clear that the merger, would really be a takeover in all but name. Sabadell saw its share price rocket as the merger talks were confirmed, but they reversed immediate­ ly upon the announce­ ment of the break down of talks and it seems

more than likely that they will now try to divest themselves of overseas assets such as TSB Bank, which has not generated significant profits for them. With a large amount of money in BBVA and a wish to increase its share of established business rather than relying heavi­ ly on emerging business, it seems likely that it will be sizing up other Spanish banking merger options.

Recycling bikes

Can he be empadronado?

Credit: Pink Albatross

BUSINESS EXTRA

www.euroweeklynews.com • 3 - 9 December 2020

36

I live in a caravan parked at the bottom of a friend’s land. I look after the land and do not pay rent. I make my living as a gardener. I would like to be empadronado in my town, but they tell me I must have a proper fixed address in order to register. I have heard that in some places they are registering even homeless persons who live on the street. What can I do?

SPAIN is one of the major beneficiaries of the current European Maritime and Fish­ eries Fund (which expires at the end of this year) and was allocated €1.089 billion out of a total budget of €6.4 bil­ lion. According to Bird Life Inter­ national, the purpose of the fund is to assist in creating en­ vironmental, economic and social sustainability in fish­ eries, but the organisation has serious doubts about the ef­ fectiveness of the spending of some of the money. Figures are only available to the end of 2018 but show that €55 million was spent on subsidies considered harmful to the marine environment and just €5.8 million was spent on artisanal (tradition­ al) fishing whilst €315 million went to industrial fishing.

New UK watchdog

C F (Costa del Sol) Yes, you are enti­ tled to be em­ YOU AND THE LAW padronado, that IN SPAIN is, registered as a resident of your municipality. You can start the process by going to Social Services in your municipal­ ity. Your legal justification is the Resolución del 16 de Marzo de 2015 de la Presidencia del Instituto Na­ cional de Estadistica. You want Article 3.3 which sets out instructions to the various town halls. These in­ structions make it clear that a caravan can be accept­ ed as a valid residence if there is ‘reasonable expec­ tation’ that official notifications can be delivered there. You start with Servicios Sociales only because they help with many problems like yours, including even the homeless.

DAVID SEARL

Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana and Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.

FOR the first time in three years it appears that a Spanish Budget will be approved after the minority government obtained support from both Basque and Catalan leaders in Parliament. On this occasion, Ciudadanos decided that it could not support the budget and it only won a sin­ gle concession, but the combined opposition of centre and right­

GOOD CONDITION: A brand-new recycled bicycle. A DUTCH company formed in 2011 has come up with a re­ cycling idea which is really what it says, as the owners re­ alised that in Holland tens of thousands of bicycles are thrown away every year and the majority of them have very usable parts. The Amsterdam­based Roetz Fair Factory not only us­ es up to 30 per cent of all of the discarded bikes it collects but also has a policy of em­ ploying those who have fallen on difficult times and need to get back into the job market. In the case of the OV­fiets bike rental fleet, Roetz say

that they can reclaim up to 70 per cent of the bicycles passed to it and they even of­ fer to customise bikes to satis­ fy individual customer re­ quirements or needs. In almost every case, the frame of discarded bicycles is in perfectly good condition, requiring mainly repainting and whilst Holland is admit­ tedly a huge market for com­ muter bicycles, when one considers the number of rac­ ing bikers there are in Spain, this appears to be a market that could be exploited and would be good for the envi­ ronment.

THE British government has decided to launch the Digital Markets Unit (DMU) as part of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in order to create and oversee a new code of practice for digital platforms. This new watchdog which will go live in April of next year intends to keep a close eye on Facebook and Google in order to ensure that smaller compa­ nies and consumers are not adversely affected by these and similar giant tech corpora­ tions. There will also be an at­ tempt to support the news in­ dustry by reviewing the rela­ tionship between publishers and platforms.

Spain’s 2021 budget wing parties including the Partido Polular and Vox have insufficient seats to vote it down. It is known that Podemos in particular are sympathetic to Cat­ alonia’s call for independence, al­

though they do not give it out­ right support, but no doubt acting President of Catalonia, Pere Aragonès, who has thrown his weight behind the decision, ex­ pects to receive some conces­

sions in the long term. Now, Spain must wait to see money distributed by the Euro­ pean Union recovery fund, which is a vital component in the 2021 budget funding.

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NET VOL 85,81K 42,05K 402,92K 184,63K 79,85K 20,86K 508,00K 29,76K 204,73K 136,17K 503,93K 106,61K 694,65K 5,11M 85,38K 27,16K 540,47K 2,57M 46,35K 296,64K 5,56M 53,55K 153,70K 221,15K 2,16M 33,59K 340,71K 123,67K 41,23K 14,87K 760,96K 162,48K 629,38K 589,74K 35,34K 145,67K 128,11K 183,55K 1,19M 137,69K 122,57K 5,65K 4,83M 4,11M 265,86K 315,42K 91,17K 55,16K 17,98K 259,48K 1,01M

COMPANY

PRICE(P)

Johnson Matthey 2.273,0 JSC MMC Norilsk Nickel ADR 28,54 JSC VTB Bank DRC 0,955 Land Securities 669,40 Legal & General 255,90 Lloyds Banking 37,38 London Stock Exchange 8.060,0 Meggitt 398,60 Melrose Industries 158,90 Mondi 1.692,50 National Grid 871,00 NatWest Group 162,35 Next 6.626,0 Ocado 2.252,60 Persimmon 2.711,0 Phoenix 770,00 Prudential 1.213,53 Reckitt Benckiser 6.639,4 Relx 1.776,50 Rentokil 503,60 Rightmove 638,80 Rio Tinto PLC 4.916,0 Rolls-Royce Holdings 109,15 Rosneft 5,93 Royal Dutch Shell A 1.317,40 Royal Dutch Shell A 1.317,0 Royal Dutch Shell B 1.279,3 RSA Insurance 675,20 Sage 606,20 Samsung Electronics DRC 1.519,00 Sberbank 13,35 Schroders 3.217,0 Scottish Mortgage 1.113,96 Segro 918,80 Severn Trent 2.413,0 Smith & Nephew 1.463,50 Smiths Group 1.481,00 Spirax-Sarco Engineering 11.240,0 SSE 1.375,29 St. James’s Place 1.025,00 Standard Chartered 459,80 Standard Life Aberdeen 275,90 Taylor Wimpey 159,95 Tesco 227,40 Tui 511,00 Unilever 4.653,0 United Utilities 907,40 Vodafone Group PLC 124,92 Whitbread 3.127,0 WPP 748,00

CHANGE(P)

% CHG.

NET VOL

2.288,0 28,67 0,961 675,90 257,20 37,98 8.120,0 402,80 161,10 1.700,64 883,00 163,30 6.646,0 2.270,00 2.717,0 794,20 1.220,50 6.650,0 1.784,00 505,00 640,40 4.920,5 110,30 5,99 1.326,31 1.330,6 1.290,8 677,60 613,20 1.519,00 13,51 3.238,0 1.117,00 923,20 2.419,0 1.473,00 1.492,50 11.260,0 1.385,70 1.030,50 464,30 276,70 160,05 228,90 527,60 4.666,0 913,20 125,05 3.169,0 750,80

2.229,0 28,40 0,955 661,30 252,15 36,79 7.932,0 391,40 156,65 1.667,00 870,20 159,50 6.468,0 2.195,00 2.657,0 769,00 1.192,00 6.508,0 1.727,00 488,40 623,80 4.880,0 106,05 5,93 1.301,61 1.301,6 1.262,9 674,60 602,80 1.513,00 13,34 3.194,0 1.095,00 899,40 2.375,0 1.449,50 1.457,50 10.830,0 1.372,39 1.010,60 455,30 269,50 155,85 226,62 510,40 4.522,0 896,40 123,65 3.120,0 738,00

45,44K 218,49K 44,49K 138,74K 477,87K 22,99M 14,46K 292,36K 1,03M 21,02K 1,71M 1,76M 30,96K 38,38K 112,84K 672,26K 54,29K 120,78K 316,26K 401,99K 268,80K 251,06K 4,18M 150,60K 78,59K 1,04M 275,92K 682,99K 78,72K 2,20K 451,82K 84,32K 674,23K 490,84K 92,79K 200,13K 135,88K 16,38K 39,07K 60,49K 685,12K 122,95K 2,70M 445,25K 716,80K 1,79M 178,61K 1,23M 65,11K 213,33K

0.89902

1.1125 Units per €

US dollar (USD) ......................................1.19848 Japan yen (JPY)......................................124.705 Switzerland franc (CHF) .........................1.08201 Denmark kroner (DKK) ...........................7.44161 Norway kroner (NOK) .............................10.5648

currenciesdirect.com/moraira • Tel: +34 966 265 072 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES N OVEMBER 30

COMPANY 3M Alphabet C Amazon.com Amgen Apple Boeing Caterpillar Chevron Cisco Coca-Cola Facebook Goldman Sachs Home Depot Honeywell IBM Intel J&J JPMorgan McDonald’s Merck&Co Microsoft Nike Procter&Gamble Salesforce.com Tesla UnitedHealth Verizon Visa A Walmart Walt Disney

PRICE 176,89 1.793,19 3.195,34 224,81 116,59 216,50 175,08 91,31 42,70 52,70 277,81 235,40 275,99 209,41 124,35 47,45 144,00 121,22 218,33 79,86 215,23 134,25 138,61 247,63 585,76 337,94 60,58 211,00 151,60 147,13

CHANGE 179,63 1.804,00 3.216,19 226,21 117,49 219,93 175,92 92,59 42,98 53,19 279,13 237,30 276,58 209,42 125,31 48,10 144,66 122,35 220,40 80,68 216,27 136,13 138,89 251,84 598,78 338,90 60,74 212,03 152,72 150,35

CHANGE% VOLUME(M) 175,57 1,27M 1.772,44 884,92K 3.190,05 2,39M 221,39 1,70M 116,22 46,69M 216,04 9,97M 173,88 976,86K 90,54 4,63M 42,64 10,77M 52,61 8,50M 274,82 7,81M 233,79 1,05M 274,36 1,63M 207,60 1,43M 123,91 2,09M 47,36 15,92M 143,22 3,06M 121,08 5,98M 217,66 1,39M 79,56 5,39M 214,04 14,51M 133,34 3,51M 137,53 4,25M 247,03 7,40M 578,45 37,56M 331,84 1,56M 60,41 5,76M 208,81 3,51M 151,10 3,67M 146,53 5,31M M - MILLION DOLLARS

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES N OVEMBER 30

COMPANY

CHANGE NET / %

VOLUME

+2.23% +6.29% +22.50% +1.30% +1.23% +8.23% +7.09% +3.80% +10.85% +16.35% +6.07%

286,797 7.28M 11.78M 739,507 884,916 346,648 467,992 136,566 4.51M 43.44M 79,115

-0.54% -1.76% -1.32% -8.62% -1.58% -22.25% -22.32% -1.36% -9.42% -2.55% -3.08%

117,204 12,415 569,393 3.42M 13,875 10,193 5.93M 70,803 5.48M 5,475 305,974

Most Advanced MercadoLibre Inc. Zoom Video Communications Inc. Novavax Inc. Alphabet Inc. Cl A Alphabet Inc. Cl C BeiGene Ltd. ADR Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MarketAxess Holdings Inc. Appian Corp. Cl A Moderna Inc. arGEN-X SE ADR

Most Declined Booking Holdings Inc. First Citizens Bancshares Inc. Cl A Charter Communications Inc. Cl A Sage Therapeutics Inc. Amerco Newborn Acquisition Corp. Un Newborn Acquisition Corp. Bio-Techne Corp. Corsair Gaming Inc. Omega Flex Inc. Cardlytics Inc.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

www.euroweeklynews.com

Fading Brexit optimism limits the pound

SUBDUED START: But the GBP/EUR exchange rate has steadily recovered ground.

ASK THE EXPERT Peter Loveday

Contact me at euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com

STAYING on top of the latest currency news can help you time your transfers more effec­ tively, so find out what you should be look­ ing out for over the next few weeks… Latest currency news After a subdued start to November, the GBP/EUR exchange rate has steadily recov­ ered ground, climbing from lows of €1.10 to highs of €1.12. Meanwhile, EUR/GBP fluctuated from highs of £0.90 to lows of £0.88. GBP/USD also edged higher this month, rising from $1.28 to a high of $1.33. What’s been happening? The euro suffered a setback this month af­ ter France and Germany re­entered strict lockdowns to curb the spread of Covid­19 in­ fections. Moreover, fears for the Eurozone’s econ­ omy, which looks increasingly likely to plum­ met into recession in the fourth quarter, have dampened demand for the single cur­ rency. Adding further pressure to the euro was the EU’s Covid­19 budget being vetoed by Poland and Hungary, throwing the bloc’s economic situation into a heightened state of uncertainty. The release of the Eurozone’s latest flash PMI manufacturing and service sector data for November also weighed on the euro as worse­than­expected figures confirmed business activity is contracting in the bloc. Meanwhile, the pound benefited from news that AstraZeneca announced a Covid­ 19 vaccine with up to 90 per cent efficacy, of which the UK government has pre­ordered

up to 100 million doses. This news, combined with news of a pos­ sible rollout of coronavirus vaccines in the next few months, boosted GBP exchange rates. Nevertheless, Brexit uncertainty has con­ tinued to clip some of the Pound’s gains due to a lack of news over positive progress on key obstacles, while Bank of England gover­ nor Andrew Bailey suggested that a no­deal Brexit could prove more severe for the UK economy than the coronavirus pandemic. What do you need to look out for? Looking to the weeks ahead, EUR in­ vestors will continue to monitor the Euro­ zone’s economic developments as countries emerge from national lockdowns. Upcoming manufacturing and unemploy­ ment data from Germany for November will likely drive EUR movement as any significant downturns in the Eurozone’s largest econo­ my would indicate worrying fourth quarter growth in the Eurozone. Meanwhile, GBP traders will continue to monitor Brexit developments between the UK and the EU as the end of the transition phase rapidly approaches. As a result, we could see Sterling suffer if there are any further signs that the UK could be leaving the EU without a trade agree­ ment at the end of the year. However, any further news of a possible Covid­19 vaccine rollout across Britain in De­ cember would prove GBP­positive. At Currencies Direct we’re here to talk currency whenever you need us, so get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your cur­ rency transfers. Since 1996 we’ve helped more than 325,000 customers with their currency transfers, just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more.

Visit us at our Spanish offices in Costa del Sol, Costa Almeria, North Costa Blanca and South Costa Blanca. Telephone UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 Email euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com • www.currenciesdirect.com.

3 - 9 December 2020

EWN 39

40 EWN

3 - 9 December 2020

www.euroweeklynews.com

What about positive praise? LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT DON’T you think it’s time we cut Boris and Co a little slack? This present Conservative cabinet was originally selected with one overriding purpose ­ to steer the UK through the UK’s biggest economic and historical transition since 1973, ie Brexit. Instead, in what amounted to hardly more than the blink of an eye, it was faced with the country’s greatest crisis since the Second World War. The goalposts were not only moved, but positively transported! Well, I for one think that in the light of a truly unprecedented situation ­ which is still changing virtually by the day ­ they have so far managed to achieve an effectively competent result. In a fairly successful effort to prop up the population, including those in business, they have injected billions into the economy, while at the same time managing to reduce infection levels to controllable proportions. They have made mistakes, but frankly

the sheer weight of daily problems and the responsibilities they have had to contend with simply defies the imagination. Across the full gamut these ongoing assessments must be a positive nightmare. Many senior members appear daily on national TV and radio, endeavouring to openly and very publicly explain the reasons for decisions they have made. They are constantly in the unenviable and impossible position of trying to please ‘all of the people, all of the time.’ And what do they get for it? Well certainly no praise from the left wing media that’s for sure. It is actually almost intelligence insulting to see the likes of the BBC and its cronies, desperately trying to gain the political kudos they clearly hope may one day rescue their beloved Labour party. When Sky’s awful Kay Burley was interviewing Rishi Sunak, who I happen to believe has been one of the most eloquent and capable members of all, she asked him how, in the light of his intention to reduce our ludicrous overseas aid budget, he slept at night knowing that thousands of children would

starve because of his decision! I was delighted to see the way he dealt with her derisory suggestion, reducing her to the final sarcastic comment she always mumbles when she has lost an intelligent argument. All their interviewees are carefully chosen, predominantly to echo their own sentiments and agenda. For every rare guest who considers the government is coping with the situation, they will deliver a dozen ‘experts’ who don’t. And as if all this isn’t enough, through it all this beleaguered government is also trying to negotiate the almost immeasurable problems of Brexit! Well all I can say is thank the Lord it is Boris and his Cabinet that are at the helm. For all their faults, the idea that it could have been Jeremy Corbyn and the likes of Diana Abbott trying to sort it all out is nothing short of horrific. So what about a little positive praise and encouragement? Remember, strong leadership is never popular; it isn’t that kind of contest. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland Mon. Wed. Fri.

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

FEATURE

LYNX CUBS THRIVING

THE Iberian Lynx breeding programme has just announced that 32 new cubs are doing very well. Although the numbers expected are only very slightly down from the breeding pairs, they are year on year increasing numbers, and this is the most encouraging news. There are 18 male and 14 female cubs at the end of this year’s programme which means the cubs will eventually bolster the number further on their maturity. Lynx cubs can be retrained for the wild, and from this programme, there are 27 cubs destined for reintroduction to their natural habitat. Breeding programmes are in Huelva and Extremadura, and the Iberian Lynx is thought to be over 1.5 million years old as a species.

Puerta del Sol Chase A P O L I C E chase through the Puerta del Sol in Madrid was a strange sight to be seen as an unlicensed driver sped into the pedestrian area. A man, aged 21, was arrested by the Municipal Police of Madrid for multiple crimes including stealing a car, driving in the pedestrian area, and skipping traffic lights. The chase occurred at around 10pm on Tuesday Novem-

ber 24, after police saw a fast-moving car on C alle Mayor. The police tried to detain the driver who ignored them before skipping several sets of traffic lights and driving into the pedestrian area, thereafter abandoning the vehicle. The pursuit then continued on foot before the arrest was made despite the driver putting up considerable resistance.

FEATURE

www.euroweeklynews.com

Lloyds Appoint CEO CHARLIE NUNN has been appointed Lloyds Banking Group’s Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, subject to regulatory approval. Mr Nunn is currently global Chief Executive, Wealth and Personal Banking at HSBC and since joining HSBC in 2011, has held a range of leadership positions including Global Chief Operating Officer of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, Group Head of Wealth Management and Digital, and Chief Executive of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, before assuming his current role in February 2018. He began his career at Accenture where he worked for 13 years in the US, France, Switzerland and the UK and became a Partner. He then moved to McKinsey & Co as a senior Partner for five years.

Strayed offside BRITISH AIRWAYS has apologised for a ‘Good luck to England Rugby against Wales’ tweet which has since been taken down. The airline said it had “strayed offside” and is BA: Had to apologise for tweet. “sorry.” The tweet was imIn a statement, the airline mediately picked up by the pubsaid: “We are proud sponsors of lic and MPs with Wales’ Health England Rugby but on this occaMinister Vaughan Gething comsion we unintentionally strayed menting: “Good way to annoy offside, for which we are sorry.” 3m+ potential customers.”

3 - 9 December 2020

EWN 41

Renting in Spain? CONSULAR MATTERS AS a lawyer and Danish Consul, I have seen a massive increase in clients ask­ ing about renting here in Spain. Everyone will of course be aware that the transition period comes to an end on December 31, 2020 for the Brits. Realistically there is not much time to purchase a property before the end of the year, especially with UK citizens having to quarantine in the UK for 14 days when they return to the United Kingdom from Spain. There are also those people who simply do not want to invest in the Spanish property mar­ ket and prefer the freedom of renting. There is a school of thought that the property prices will go down next year, but who knows. This means that people who have

decided not to buy in Spain are turn­ ing to renting as an option to show that they are living in Spain and are therefore able to make an application for residency or residencia as it is called in Spain. There are of course a number of reputable agents who can help you find a place. There are also numerous private advertisements on sites. Sadly, there are a few scams that are out there, and you must take care. The most popular are fraudsters rent­ ing a property on somewhere and tak­ ing deposits and rent in advance be­ fore disappearing. There are even criminal gangs breaking into proper­ ties and doing the same thing. Make sure that you see an indepen­ dent lawyer in order to guard against these scams and to make sure that the contract is legal and negotiated in your favour. For example, you may need a notice clause that allows you

to leave early, as you may be looking for a property to buy in the not too distant future. There are three different property rentals contracts in Spain. The first is where you rent a house for a holiday like on Airbnb, Booking.com or others. The second is where you take a rental contract for up to six months, this may because you are working or studying away from home. The third is long term rentals for 12 months or more, these are contracts where it is your main place of resi­ dence. If you follow the terms of the agreement, then you can extend the term to five years even if the landlord does not agree. This of course is not legal advice and again as always seek independent ad­ vice from a registered lawyer before signing or paying any monies. You can obtain a list of lawyers from the Con­ sulates.

Marisa Moreno Castillo, Senior Lawyer at Just Law Solicitors and Consul for Denmark.

Website: www.justawsolicitors.com email: info@justlaw.es

THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER

FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER

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3 - 9 December 2020

EWN 43

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UK bank closures how we can help IN September thousands of expats living in Europe were told that their UK bank accounts or credit cards would be closed by the end of the year as a result of Brexit, with Lloyds, Halifax and Barclaycard among the banks planning to close accounts. Other big name banks have also refused to rule out account closures for expats. The reason for the potential ac­ count closures is the likely impact of Brexit on ‘passporting’ arrange­ ments. Passporting refers to UK banks providing services to customers based in other states of the Euro­ pean Economic Area (EEA) without direct authorisation. As it stands, passporting rules as we know them will end on Decem­ ber 31, 2020 unless a new agree­ ment with the EU is reached. This means that UK banks will need to have separate authorisation in every EEA country they want to operate in, resulting in some banks deciding to close their accounts in some countries. It has been estimated that around 13,000 accounts will be closed by Lloyds, Halifax and the Bank of Scot­ land, but many more accounts could be affected in time. The situation can vary depending on where you live in Europe, but it is understandably unsettling with many expats now scrambling for an alternative means of managing their finances. In light of this, we wanted to outline some of the ways we at Currencies Direct can help you manage your international fi­ nances.

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At Currencies Direct we’re here to talk currency whenever you need us, so get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your currency transfers. Since 1996 we’ve helped more than 325,000 customers save time and money with excellent exchange rates, no fees and expert support. With 20+ global branches, including 17 across Spain and Portugal, we’re never far away when you need us. Give us a call to find out more. *The information provided was correct as of 30/10/2020 but could be subject to change. ** Currencies Direct’s bank providers do not monitor the funds they place on safeguarding accounts or how they operate these accounts. It is Currencies Direct’s responsibility to segregate funds.

44 EWN

3 - 9 December 2020

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist. To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/3.0.15/nora-johnson

YES, right! I have transitioned from feeling disappointed to feel­ ing ‘pretty’ disappointed. Err, let me explain. I’m referring to Broadway’s latest revamp of the musical West Side Story. This has dropped, amongst other things, I Feel Pretty, the jubilant song of the heroine Maria, because its di­ rector is after a rendition ‘for the 21st century.’ Maybe ‘I Feel Sexy’ would fit the bill for him? Well, instead of the Sharks and the Jets, perhaps we can do a British version with the Bojos and the Starmerites? ‘It’s alarming how harming we are,’ nicely sani­ tised with the knife fight scenes removed and replaced with some ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ street con­ test ... Thank goodness! Maybe now we can look forward to a happy end­ ing for Romeo and His Juliet. (Transgender by the time you see it: Romeo and Their Juliet, if you

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I HAVE TRANSITIONED

THIS YEAR!

please.) As for the balcony scene, Juliet would have to wear a safety harness and Romeo would have to go on a ladder­climbing course. Not to mention a Broadway reimagining of Hamlet 2020 ­ Hamlet: ‘To be or­.’ Director: “Cut, that’s a wrap, let’s keep it rele­ vant. Hey, would it be OK for this Hamlet guy to do less talking? Can’t understand a word he’s say­ ing anyway through that mask of his.” Yes, it’s about time those archa­ ic plays by the Bard were updated. For starters, Desdemona needs to do a runner and get the hell away from her abusive and disturbed husband ­ she should run away with Cassio. Lady Macbeth should be more sympathetic to her husband’s am­ bitious but weak personality and tell him to accept his lot. Henry V should avoid so much warmongering. And Caesar should

simply listen to his wife and stay at home! It’s PC gone mad, I tell you! Also woke, virtue signalling and snowflakery. If, according to Broadway, ‘the classics needed re­ freshing to maintain their rele­ vance,’ how do they become clas­ sics in the first place? Answer: by not being messed about by individuals hitching a ride on their excellence. Nora Johnson’s psychological crime thrillers ‘No Safe Place,’ ‘Betrayal,’ ‘The Girl in the Woods,’ ‘The Girl in the Red Dress,’ ‘No Way Back,’ ‘Landscape of Lies,’ ‘Retribution,’ ‘Soul Steal­ er,’ ‘The De Clerambault Code’ (www.nora­johnson.net) avail­ able online as eBook (€0.99; £0.99), Apple Books, paperback and audiobook. All profits to Costa del Sol Cud­ eca cancer charity.

FEATURE

Holy Theft POLICE are investigating a potential alarm fault that allowed thieves to break down the door of ‘La Hermandad de la Sed’ church in Sevilla’s Nervion district. Although the robbery occurred in the early hours of Friday morning, November 27, the break-in wasn’t reported until a cleaner discovered the scene at midday. Thieves reportedly took all the church’s jewellery, including ‘the golden pomegranate of San Juan’ and the ‘medal of the city’. A safe burst open when the thieves threw it out of a window, allowing them to grab large sums of cash including money from the Christmas lottery.

1,000 x starting price PHILIP SHEPPARD, one of Ireland’s best known auctioneers, placed the Celadon vase, originating from China, in its catalogue with an estimated price of between €800 and €1,200. The bidding, which was done online due to the Covid-19 pandemic, began at €500. Within a few minutes, two contending buyers raised the bids all the way to a staggering final bid of

€1.2 million. The auctioneer said “we are thrilled to have created a new I rish record,” with the vase now considered the most expensive art piece ever sold in the Republic. “To do so with a live online sale in such a resoundingly successful manner is a tribute to the professionalism of the team,’ most of whom he said are working from home.

45

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YOUR STARS FOR NEXT 7 DAYS ARIES (March 21 - April 20) There is a strong urge to be up and doing something to further your artistic needs. Be sure that you know what is important. Keep it simple and aim straight for it. There may be other options to be explored, but do not go off at a tangent. To do so would see you have many fingers in many pies but making little real progress. Trust your instincts.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) Although you are feeling more confident in many ways, there is also a secret insecurity. There is a strange emotional atmosphere this week, which perplexes you. An unusual feeling that you need to change your surroundings cannot be put down to a seasonal ‘nesting’ instinct.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Waiting for just the right time to do and say things this week can produce miracles. Spontaneity may be your watchword but forward planning is where real progress is at the moment. It’s not a week to expect cooperation from others.

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) If you are James Bond, I see no surprises in the week ahead. If you are not, then I certainly do. Something quite shocking crosses your path, so be cautious in your approach to new situations. Keep your eyes and ears open and be prepared to seek advice.

LEO (July 24 - August 23) At last it is clear that the future holds something quite exciting. Looking back during the past few years there has been a build-up to this moment. Treading a new path is half the story. There is much to be discovered both outside and inside your sphere.

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Your heart is saying ‘Let’s get out and have some fun.’ Your head is saying ‘Okay, but let’s leave it until later.’ Which is right? Well, one thing is for sure, emphasis on finances is restraining. You are, however, building on something strong for the future.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) What others see as our way ahead is not always the path which we want to tread. It would be easy to be cosy and not take a chance. Is that what you really want? Outside influences are heavy and pressing at times.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Be sure not to put up with tedious comments. Someone is trying to rile you. Who are they to think this way? It is foolish and impossible to please this person. Avoid them and move on to something out of their sphere. A few days away clears your head and gives a more balanced picture.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) Who wants you to go where and who wants you to do what? Each day seems to be spoken for before it arrives. Spending your life like this means running out of credit on your health. Do not neglect your well-being for the wishes of others.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) There are plenty of people who will tell you that what you seek does not exist. They will also tell you that what you feel is unsustainable. This is, however, no time to compromise your dreams or emotional needs. Taking a bright view and a chance now seems unusual to those round you.

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) The last time that you sat down and thought about your finances it was confusing. Things are a lot simpler now. Keep emotions and the needs of others out of the equation. Balance is what this week is all about. Get the percentages right now and it is plain sailing for the immediate future.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Something comes to your attention that makes you feel both anger and injustice. As you are urged to speak out and put your cards on the table, you hesitate. Be sure to have the true facts of the matter because this gives you real confidence.

TIME OUT

HEXAGRAM The purpose of the Hexagram puzzle is to place the 19 six-letter words into the 19 cells. The letters at the edges of interlocking cells MUST BE THE SAME. The letters in the words must be written CLOCKWISE. The word in cell 10 (GARDEN) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues.

ADVENT CLOUDY CORRAL DIGEST DIPOLE EMERGE ENERGY FILTER GARDEN (10) GENIAL ILLUME INLAND INTENT PUPPET RELIEF REPEAL TEEING UMPIRE UPTAKE

LOTTERY UK NATIONAL LOTTERY Sat 28 November

9-27-35 45-46-57

BONUS BALL

32

IRISH LOTTO Sat 28 November

5-6-16 18-45-47

BONUS BALL

41

EURO MILLIONS Tue 24 November

BONUS BALL

8

25-33-38 42-50

12

Fri 27 November

BONUS BALL

2-05-08 14-16

8 9

EL MILLON: HGG28522 LA PRIMITIVA Thurs 26 November

BONUS BALL

17-22-26 29-31-44

20 9

JOKER: 2287293 Sat 28 November

BONUS BALL

2-04-13 21-25-28

32

JOKER: 7671945

9

TIME OUT

46

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CODE BREAKER

ENGLISH-SPANISH

The clues are mixed, some clues are in Spanish and some are in English.

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 1 represents Z and 15 represents B, so fill in Z every time the figure 1 appears and B every time the figure 15 appears. Now, using your knowledge of the English language, work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you discover the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and the control grid.

Across 1 Lavado (7) 5 Cisnes (aves) (5) 8 Cuero (piel) (7) 9 Oferta (5) 10 To ring (telephone) (5) 11 Enamel (7) 12 Abades (6) 14 Treinta (6) 17 Briefcase (7) 19 Deporte (5) 22 Meeting (5) 23 Sentence (linguistics) (7) 24 Mirar fijamente (5) 25 Renacuajo (7)

Down 1 El país de Gales (5) 2 España (5) 3 Heredar (7) 4 Jardín (6) 5 Tormenta (5) 6 Pin (sewing) (7) 7 Cirugía (7) 12 Clams (7) 13 Scales (instrument) (7) 15 Marido (7) 16 A pie (2,4) 18 Suit (for man) (5) 20 Rust (5) 21 Tenso (5)

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION • LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION • LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION QUICK Across: 1 Basis, 4 Poker, 7 Renovates, 8 Seek, 9 Snooty, 12 Dither, 13 Open, 16 Albatross, 18 Argue, 19 Sadly. Down: 1 Bogus, 2 Serpent, 3 Song, 4 Paving, 5/17 Kit bag, 6 Risky, 10 Opposed, 11 Beetle, 12 Drama, 14 Navvy, 15 Boss.

BOGGLED

FUTOSHIKI

Across: 1 Reloj, 3 Muebles, 6 Pumpkin, 8 Grace, 10 Rocks, 11 Sisters, 14 Anoche, 15 Cartel, 17 Scandal, 20 Perro, 21 Dress, 22 Believe, 23 Riqueza, 24 Scots. Down: 1 Ropería, 2 Jokes, 3 Menos, 4 Edges, 5 Stews, 7 Microwave, 9 Afeitarse, 12 Inch, 13 Yema, 16 Lioness, 17 Sudor, 18 Desde, 19 Libra, 20 Pills.

amen ament tame tamp tent temp teen teem enema neem pate paten patent mate mete meet meow meows moms moos mown mows gent gene genet goof goos gown befog feta fete feet feign feint foment foemen omen tiny twig twin twos twosome elms moment moon moony women womb woof woos wino winos winy wont nowt nows coomb coombe cooee coign coigne coin comb combe come cows coos clef smog some sown socle soon swig swoon scow sonic

CODE BREAKER

NONAGRAM ahem ghat hair hang hare harm hart hate hear heat heir hint hire math meth nigh

CRYPTIC

Across: 1 Encased, 5 Tasks, 8 Stern, 9 Montana, 10 Repulse, 11 Cited, 12 Manse, 14 Offer, 19 Roses, 21 Abridge, 23 Car wash, 24 Moron, 25 Shame, 26 San Remo. Down: 1 Ensure, 2 Cheap, 3 Singles, 4 Damsel, 5 Tunic, 6 Startle, 7 Shandy, 13 Austria, 15 Fireman, 16 Erects, 17 Gashes, 18 Lean-to, 20 Stake, 22 Dirge.

ENGLISH-SPANISH

rhea tanh than them then thin earth eight garth girth harem hater heart hinge might mirth neath neigh night right thane thegn their therm thine thing anthem anther aright gather hanger haring hating hegira hermit hernia hetman hitman menhir rehang hairnet harming hearing heating hematin megahit earthing NIGHTMARE

HEXAGRAM

WORD LADDER

1 SCHEME 2 TOWHEE 3 ODIOUS 4 TROPHY 5 CURATE 6 RADIAL 7 FERRET 8 RAMROD 9 FLORIN 10 FAMOUS 11 ERRATA 12 RABIES 13 COARSE 14 BEATEN 15 STRUCK 16 EXCUSE 17 NEATER 18 UNLIKE 19 RESIDE

MUST MAST MALT MALE SALE SAVE or

KAKURO

SUDOKU

MUST RUST RUSE RASE RAVE SAVE

47

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Costa Blanca TODAY

DENIA JAVEA CALPE ALTEA

WEATHER

BENIDORM ALICANTE

ORIHUELA TORREVIEJA

TOMORROW

DENIA JAVEA CALPE

Malaga TODAY: MAX 18 MIN 8 Fri 17 10 Sat 15 10 Sun 14 9 Mon 17 8 Tues - 16 9 Wed 15 9

Alicante TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 12 Fri 16 10 Sat 17 13 Sun 16 12 Mon 16 11 Tues - 19 11 Wed 19 12

Almeria TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 7 Fri 19 9 Sat 15 8 Sun 14 10 Mon 15 11 Tues - 16 12 Wed 17 11

Benidorm TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 11 Fri 19 12 Sat 18 11 Sun 17 12 Mon 19 12 Tues - 17 11 Wed 17 159 Mallorca TODAY: MAX 17, MIN 11 Fri 19 13 Sat 17 12 Sun 17 11 Mon 18 11 Tues 17 12 Wed 19 11

TIME OUT

FUTOSHIKI Fill in the squares so that each digit from 1 to 6 occurs exactly once in each row and column. Greater-than and less-than signs indicate the relationship of the two adjacent squares. There is only one solution, and you can find it without guessing.

BOGGLED How many English words can you find in the Boggled grid, according to the following rules? • The letters must be adjoining in a ‘chain’. They can be adjacent horizontally, vertically or diagonally. • Words must contain at least four letters and may include singular and plural or other derived forms. • No letter may be used more than once within a single word, unless it appears twice. • No vulgarities or proper nouns are permitted.

ALTEA BENIDORM ALICANTE

ORIHUELA TORREVIEJA

SATURDAY

DENIA JAVEA CALPE ALTEA BENIDORM ALICANTE

ORIHUELA TORREVIEJA

S: Sun

C: Cloudy

Th: Thunder

Cl: Clear

Sh: Showers

Sn: Snow

Bilbao TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 10 Fri 17 9 Sat 16 11 Sun 14 11 Mon 15 10 Tues 16 13 Wed 15 15 Madrid TODAY: MAX 17, MIN 13 Fri 16 15 Sat 15 12 Sun 14 12 Mon 16 13 Tues 17 14 Wed 17 16

Barcelona TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 11 Fri 17 11 Sat 16 12 Sun 15 11 Mon 16 11 Tues 18 9 Wed 19 10

Euro Weekly News strives for accuracy, but cannot be held responsible for any errors in published forecasts

TARGET:

SCORING:

• Average: 17 • Good: 23 • Very good: 33 • Excellent: 43

4 letters: 1 point 5 letters: 2 points 6 letters: 3 points 7 letters: 5 points 8 or more letters: 11 points

KAKURO Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.

CRYPTIC Across 1 Small charts for the horses (7) 5 Row about head of ginger cat (5) 8 Part of book showing group of clergymen (7) 9 Quiet law-breaking garment? (5) 10 Argument at badger's den gains nothing (3-2) 11 Cousin is upset about hard pillow (7) 12 Broken ribs on birds (6) 14 Electricians leave car aboard ship (6) 17 Give insincere praise that's less sparkling (7) 19 Tatty rag on musical instrument (5) 22 Clip of quiet organ (5) 23 Many getting slimmer, and smarter (7) 24 Start looking after the machine (5) 25 Loose rocks by church make an unpleasant sound (7) Down 1 They are used for holding coal fires (5) 2 Sailor a foot nearer the stern (5) 3 Disappointment of a flat tyre? (3,4) 4 Collided with stop-start vehicle (6) 5 The trials and tribulations of international games (5) 6 Craftsman less inclined to work after midnight (7) 7 Gives in to the French about rents (7) 12 Rejection of damaged seal fur (7) 13 Showing two undergarments is most valiant (7) 15 Landing includes solitary colonist (7) 16 Ruins the king, it's said (6) 18 Rich cake a part of breakfast or tea (5) 20 Spiritual benefactor that is after information (5) 21 Direction given in Babylon or Thebes (5)

TIME OUT

48

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SUDOKU

QUICK

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3X3 box contains the digits 1-9. There’s no maths involved. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic.

Across 1 Not busy (9) 6 Before the appointed time (5) 7 Thoughts (5) 9/14 Informant's warning (3,3) 10 Suitcases (7) 11 Childhood disease (7) 14 See 9 16 Necessities (5) 17 Rub or scrape out (5) 18 Unknowns (9)

Down 1 Watchful (5) 2 Powered flying vehicle (9) 3 Faithful (5) 4 Take along (5) 5 Squander (5) 8 Turn from liquid into vapour (9) 11 Repairs (5) 12 Unsuccessful participant (5) 13 Back of a boat (5) 15 Gives food to (5)

WORD LADDER Move from the start word (DINE) to the end word (HALL) in the same number of steps as there are rungs on the Word Ladder. You must only change one letter at a time.

DINE

SPANISH LESSON BACK HALL

Christmas Time Christmas presents – Regalos de Navidad

NONAGRAM

Christmas tree – Arbol de Navidad Baubles – Bolas de decoración Tree lights – Luces de arbol de navidad

RACHEL AND FRIENDS

Wrapping paper – Papel para envolver

How many English words of four letters or more can you make from the nine letters in our Nonagram puzzle? Each letter may be used only once (unless the letter appears twice). Each word MUST CONTAIN THE CENTRE LETTER (in this case R) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

Sellotape - Fixo Ribbon - Lazo Scissors – Tijeras Poinsetta plant – Flor de Pascua Father Christmas – Papa Noel

TARGET:

Sleigh – Trineo Reindeer - Reno

audreyquinton99@gmail.com

• Average: 10 • Good: 14 • Very good: 20 • Excellent: 26

EW YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION Letters should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments on our website: www.euroweeklynews.com Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.

HAS THIS HAPPENED TO YOU?

COMMENTS FROM FACEBOOK Covid Jabs will not be made mandatory in France - Good or Bad? Optional... But you’re not boarding an aircraft without one. You’re not coming into this shopping centre without one. You can’t work here without one. People will have the ‘incentives’ to have the vaccine and they will be made to feel like they made a choice to have it themselves.

AF

Catering Assistant Admits Theft From Queen’s London Residence Well, let’s face it, everything the monarchy owns was stolen in the first place anyway. Nobody ever asked for a monarchy. They put themselves where they are by using terrible methods.

DS XXXX XXX

DGT inspection week TODAY I received a fine from Finestrat Town Hall for €751 reduced to €300.40 if I paid before December 14, 2020. The reason for the fine, I left a 100 per cent plastic beach chair at the side of the plastic recycling bin as it would not fit in. I don’t mind paying a fine if I did something wrong, but I think the amount I have been fined is out of order. AF Finestrat, Alicante

OUR VIEW CHRISTMAS OVER CHARITY

AS this awful year comes to an end Christmas is a well-needed festivity for bringing people together and raising spirits within our communities, however, Christmas light switch-ons around the world are causing serious debate. Malaga City alone reportedly spends €600,000 on its lights and cost is just one of many issues people have with the whole spectacle this year. With families in crisis living in poverty due to lack of work and children dependent on charity for presents under the tree, is it really appropriate to be splashing so much cash? Local charities are digging deep to raise funds for local families yet local councils are prioritising Christmas lights and it seems really immoral. The argument though is that the decoration of towns raises people’s spirits and is a feel-good factor which we all need after such a traumatic year when loved ones have been lost, and sickness and mental health issues have been at their highest in decades. The other issue raised by most is that of the crowds - when we can’t have more than sixx in our homes and social distancing is enforced in bars and restaurants, causing a serious lack of revenue for businesses, how is it acceptable to encourage thousands to gather in the streets together to witness Christmas light switch-ons? Saturday, November 28, saw the Food Fairies on the Costa Del Sol raise over €20,000 at their wonderful charity event. These kind-hearted ladies have been providing food hampers for local families since the start of the pandemic, helping mothers eat so they can produce milk for their newborn babies, and feeding those in poverty. If a local council can blow €600,000 on Christmas lights charities like this shouldn’t need to exist, because the problem shouldn’t exist.

CORRECTIONS

Dog Attacks Having just read a letter published relating to dog attacks. Your reader suggests walking with a stick to presumably use as a weapon of defence, however this can be seen by a brave dog as a challenge. As a retired police dog handler and a trainer of dogs for more than 40 years, I feel qualified to offer a little advice. Taking a small can of hairspray or similar (nothing toxic) in your pocket is an excellent form of defence. Sprayed into the dog’s face, eyes if possible, will encourage most dogs to back off. This won’t do permanent harm, but should do the trick. Incidentally we used to advise young women to do the same for their personal safety. Best wishes B Spensley

Letters to Leapy With regard to your offering this week my rap analogy is Rap does to music what rust does to cars. With regard to illegal immigrants ,why is that virtually all the media, led by the BBC, use the words migrants and refugees and have virtually removed the words illegal immigrants from their reporting vocabulary. When I was young and watched the news on the TV (50’s and 60’s) I was always impressed by the correct English and grammar that was used. A glaring example of poor pronunciation is the BBC version of the word Islamists pronounced very quickly as Islumists. For the uneducated amongst us the word does not have a U in it. Come on BBC don’t be afraid to say it like it is. READY 1, 2, 3, ISLAMISTS. There you go, didn’t hurt did it? I could go on... oooops!!! It’s stopped raining, time to get back outside. I’ll save it for the next rainy day. Keep telling it like it is even if it does annoy one or two. After all they are a minority. P J Elliott Well said Leapy in almost every column every week. It’s refreshing to read something from someone that says it as it is. It’s about time more people in charge took the stand. Regards P Shaw

HAVE YOUR SAY All letters by email or post should carry the writer’s address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published. Readers who have missed correspondence can see all letters - which can be edited before publication - posted on: www.euroweeklynews.com.

You think they’d check children are properly seated in cars too, so many not in car seats, not even belted in, or in the front seat when they are not old enough or have no reason to be. I see this daily, who would be the first to cry when something happened to the child and it could have been prevented.

MJ

Scottish Government Rewards NHS Staff and Social Care Workers for their ‘Extraordinary’ Work Shame Boris doesn’t value his NHS instead he thinks clapping is sufficient, embarrassing excuse of a leader.

IJ

WHO Advises Against Different Families Meeting at Christmas Makes sense not to all meet for Xmas. Basically the UK is suddenly going to throw itself wide open for everyone to meet up over Xmas. Err... what’s the sense in that.

VK

Bottles and other missiles thrown at police as they break up illegal rave and issue more than 100 fines. Those who don’t want to obey the law should not be treated in hospital if they become ill with the virus.

TA

Breaking News - Health Secretary Matt Hancock addresses the nation The way things are going January will be the real test as to any control at all!

IM

Quality and quantity 5.25 euros a tin where I live on Costa Blanca. Someone did put a photo of the contents of a tin of Roses on Facebook and there were only four purple ones. I agree, too many soft, sickly ones now, I have swapped to Celebrations.

GR

At the EWN, we pride ourselves that reports are accurate and fair. If we do slip up, we promise to set the record straight in a clear, no-nonsense manner. To ask for an inaccuracy to be corrected. Email: editorial@euroweeklynews.com

3- 9 December 2020

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Advertising Feature

K Sud Dental - Conservative Dentistry K SUD DENTAL is a British dental clinic on the Costa Blanca which offers gener­ al and cosmetic dentistry along with fa­ cial rejuvenation treatments. With a focus towards conservative dentistry, the main aim is for clients to keep their own teeth for as long as possi­ ble. Most treatments are as minimally in­ vasive as possible ensuring there is mini­ mal risk of post­operative pain. Cosmetic Dentist and one of the only Fibredontists in the area, Dr Karan Sud prides himself on doing everything possi­ ble to conserve teeth, rather than rec­ ommending the need for expensive treatments. “We try to do all we can to keep someone’s own teeth and offer an alter­ native to simply taking them out or re­ placing them. Keeping what’s there is a lot less traumatic, less invasive, and cheaper. “We would always encourage people to save money where they can while still receiving the best quality treatment, to

K SUD DENTAL: Offer general and cosmetic dentistry. ask questions, make sure every option has been considered, and we offer a free consultation so that clients can do just that. “The amount of people whose teeth we have been able to save is incredible.” Before going ahead with an expensive dental treatment plan, Nurse and Prac­ tice Manager Jennifer said it is always a good idea to get a second opinion. “See if there is an easier, more eco­ nomical approach ­ that’s what we do. Everything we do comes with a guaran­ tee as long as people maintain their an­

nual check­ups we will always maintain all work we carry out.” Dr Karan Sud specialises in treatments that involve a more personal touch, with the combined aim of making treatment as comfortable as possible. Most restorative treatments are done at chairside in one visit eliminating the need for impressions, temporary fixtures and commonly even injections. Using glass­reinforced fibre bundles he is able to replace/restore missing teeth through the combination of ad­ vanced bonding systems and high­quali­

ty composite resins providing a long term solution to tooth replacements and cosmetic modifications. Dr Karan Sud also uses the same fibre system to reinforce loose teeth with oth­ er neighbouring firmer ones as opposed to artificial replacement with a denture or implants. Karan’s principal aim is to make clients understand why the proposed treat­ ment is the best option and has a portfo­ lio of photos and videos to ensure pa­ tients leave with complete piece of mind. Delighted client Shirley Murphy said: “I can’t recommend highly enough Karan and his nurse Jen. I have had a fear of dentists for a number of years and felt com­ pletely at ease throughout my two visits. “Jen was constantly reassuring and keeping me calm like a guardian angel and Karan’s professional expertise in ad­ vising the options available to me in a way I understood meant I could make a

decision on the treatment I was about to get. “Karan’s attention to detail and pro­ fessional ability was excellent and he ex­ plained the whole process all the way through.” K Sud Dental treatments: Fillings Dentures Patrial Acrylic Cobalt Chrome Denture Flexible Partial Dentures Denture Reline Crown Veneers (Lab made) Conventional Bridges X-Ray (Digital Phosphor Plate) Extraction Root Canal Treatment (Includes composite filling reconstruction afterward) Periodontal Treatment (With hygienist) Tooth Whitening Teeth Grinding Dermal Fillers

K Sud Dental: Avinguida de la Marina, Benissa • 603 296 687 • ksuddental@gmail.com • www.ksuddental.com

Do you have a right to voice your opinion?

DIONE LOCKYER THE definition of opinion ­ A view or judge­ ment formed about something, not necessari­ ly based on fact or knowledge. The meaning of opinion, as stated above, is the view of either yourself or others. An opin­ ion is not necessarily based on fact, but rather based on an individual’s experience or feelings. The year 2020 has seen more opinions than ever. Whether you are for or against a vaccine, whether you are a Boris or Trump supporter, whether you are for or against Brexit. It is all based on YOUR opinion, YOUR lifestyle/circum­ stances and YOUR past or present experiences. There are two very popular sayings: ‘Other people’s opinions are none of your business,’ and, ‘Keep your opinions to your­ self.’ My question to you is do you have a right to voice them? Opinions are important, and in some ways, important for our mental health, if done in the correct manner.

For example: Woman A ­ A lady who has quite clearly stat­ ed that she and her family will not have the lat­ est vaccine. She genuinely feels that there is not enough research and whilst she believes there is a virus, she does not believe the vac­ cine is necessary. Woman B ­ A lady who is pro vaccine. She is adamant that the vaccine will save hers and the world’s lives. She strongly believes that if she does not have the vaccine, she is at risk. You would have read each of the above ex­ amples, and already based your opinion on one of these ladies, without either knowing them personally, nor knowing their reasons behind their decisions. Some of you may have decided to judge them and voice YOUR opinion on THEIR decision. Now I believe that EVERYONE is entitled to an opinion, the same as everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. But I also be­ lieve that other people’s opinions should be re­ spected. When you judge or argue the opinion of oth­ ers, it is ALWAYS based on your own fears. So before you respond. Start by asking yourself: Is this kind? Is this necessary? And most importantly. What AM I AFRAID OF!

You are in charge! No one else can do this for you, you HAVE to do it for yourself. If you are ready to take the step, join my wonderful women-only membership https://dionelockyermindsetmentor.com/membership-offer/

Bipolar obsessions MS BIPOLAR UP AND DOWN WITH BALANCE UNEDITED THE symptom that every person with bipolar avoids talking about, because we know we are obsessing but we can’t stop it! Whilst juggling the depression with the mania, often enough a third ball to juggle with gets thrown into the mix : anxiety. Is she ignoring me? What time are we meeting? Why isn’t anyone telling me! Are they avoiding me? I need more information. Why doesn’t someone tell me what is happening? Are they angry with me? They are quieter than usual , what is going on? What are they not telling me? I need to plan for Christmas. I need to write a list, I need to write another list, I don’t like my handwriting in this one, maybe use another pen? This thinking can be so physically painful. Compulsively checking social media or your phone. Calling and leaving more than one message and not waiting for a reply. Getting upset when people don’t call back or message back. Uncertainty is painful for the bipolar mind. We want answers NOW! in order to feel better. If we can’t get the answers, our bodies choose repetitive behaviours as a calming tool. We then go into overdrive thinking of every possible worse case scenario. This doesn’t work! Sometimes we need someone to

look us in the eyes and tell us that we are worrying beyond anything we could possibly control. Once I start obsessing over something I find it difficult to stop. From little insignificant non-issues to the larger things in life It’s not just thoughts that I can’t keep up with, and then the most insignificant thing will make me explode. For example : I am waiting for results from some blood tests back from the Doctor to check all my levels are okay, so my mind automatically is expecting the blood tests to come back terrible. I am waiting for results back from the vet because my dog has had a lump on his back for a while now that won’t go away, automatically I am thinking how much an operation is going to cost and will he be okay, I can’t begin to imagine my boy not to be around, my fridge decided to pack up on me over the weekend, it has an alarm that goes off when it goes over a certain temperature , the sound was piercing. Next thing I know I am sat on my kitchen floor crying over my fridge not working!! Bless him, my dad came round to my house as he knew I wasn’t right and sat with me whilst I sobbed over a fridge, reality of it all, I wasn’t just crying over a fridge - I had reached breaking point. It doesn’t have to be the bigger things in life, often I worry about literally nothing. Anxiety takes over. It starts with worry, then turns to anxiety and I struggle with obsessing over ridiculous or irrelevant things. Follow me on Facebook @Mswillowbipolar Love Ms Bipolar X

msbipolar@euroweeklynews.com

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3 - 9 December 2020

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Women more likely to suffer illness ARE women really the weak­ er sex? A survey by retail analysts Mintel said that women were more likely to report having suffered various ail­ ments, with 81 per cent re­ porting suffering a headache

in the past year, versus 68 per cent of men. It found 57 per cent of women have suf­ fered back pain, compared to 50 per cent of men and one in three women; 34 per cent said they had experi­ enced five or more different

types of pain in the last 12 months versus one in four men. Some 57 per cent of women who suffered a cold or flu said they coped by go­ ing to bed and resting, com­ pared to a lower 44 per cent of men. The study found

By Clinica Britannia

Joint pain and how a Traumatologist can stop your suffering. JOINTS form the connections between bones and provide the support that helps us to move. Any damage to the joints from disease or injury can interfere with your movement and cause discomfort and often debilitating pain. Different conditions can lead to painful joints, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, gout, strains, sprains, and other injuries. Why wait? See a Traumatologist or Orthopaedic Surgeon now to help diagnose and treat your condition before it deteriorates. They are the Specialists in all aspects of joint injury and pain. • Joint or musculoskeletal pain due to an injury • Progressive pain in the hip or knee that is aggravated when carrying weight • Severe and disabling joint pain • Moderate or advanced arthritis in the knee or hip • Failure of other treatments for joint pain • Need for a joint replacement • Use of Plasma Rich Platelet treatment. The use of an x-ray, ultrasound, blood test

that 78 per cent of women are happy to turn to over the counter medicines when they are ill, compared to 66 per cent of men. Mintel’s Consumer Lifestyles Analyst said the research showed that women are notably more likely to experience more types of pain as well as ex­ periencing a greater range of pains. This could be due to the fact that women contin­ ue to multi­task in terms of running the household, car­ ing for the children and holding down a job leading them to feel run down and more susceptible to bugs and illness.

Brain changes

or MRI is often necessary to check the inflammation and degeneration of the joint. We at Clinica Britannia can offer a quick and successful solution to any of your pain issues. Contact us for an appointment with our Specialist.

For more information or to book an appointment call CLINICA BRITANNIA on +34 965 837 553/ +34 607 255 755, email us at britannia.calpe@gmail.com or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ClinicaBritannia/

RESEARCHERS in Barcelona have identified brain changes 20 years before Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Scientists at the Hospital Sant Pau studied 300 peo­ ple, and, using new magnet­ ic resonance imaging tech­ niques, detected brain alterations in healthy pa­ tients two decades before the the disease was diag­ nosed. The new magnetic reso­ nance technique ­ developed at the hospital ­ allows them to measure the movement of water in the brain and to estimate at what point in their lives the participants would develop the first clini­ cal symptoms of the disease. The researchers claim the data “proves there are changes in the cerebral cor­ tex about 20 years before the first alterations in mem­ ory appear.” This “allows us to understand better the dis­ ease, studying the trajectory of these alterations long be­ fore the clinical symptoms appear.” According to neurologist Juan Fortea, main researcher of the project, “the new data obtained will have a great implication when designing future studies to understand unexpected findings of clini­ cal trials with antiamyloid therapies.”

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FEATURE

It’s all a load of buzzcocks! MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION Views of a Grumpy Old Man I HAVE had enough of all the politicians and TV experts telling everybody they have to do this and that during this pandemic. What should happen is they stop getting paid. Get nothing, the same as millions are having to do. I listen to Piers Morgan et al giving expert advice whilst being paid mil­ lions and Piers flogging his book every five seconds. Things would soon change if they all stopped getting paid. They come up with only stuff the type of person that does not live in the real world could do. Take the Christmas thing. One of my mates has three daughters. They all have two kids so, according to the rules, only two daughters’ families can go round for lunch. How do you decide who’s not com­ ing? Can you imagine ‘phoning up one of your kids and saying we’ve had a chat and decided as you’re our least favourite kid and so as not to break the rules you can’t come round. It’s nonsense and totally un­policeable. I have another friend who has nine people living in his house and his brother has sev­ en plus another kid who lives on his own

but they can all get together. It’s a ridicu­ lous situation. If that wasn’t bad enough they are even saying you can’t play games like Monopoly, Ludo and other board games. If anyone is interested I’ve gone on to the deep web and found a couple of un­ derground clubs that are allowing people to play Twister! It’s all a load of buzzcocks! My mother­in­law is 94 and has told my daughter she can’t go and visit her over Christmas because her two sons are com­ ing over. If you do visit you’re told don’t hug, put your hand over your heart in­ stead. Then there’s the hospitality industry in absolute chaos. Can’t drink without a sub­ stantial meal when nobody has any idea what that consists of. You have to leave when you have finished your meal so peo­ ple will just take longer to finish. The point is it doesn’t matter what the government say, people will just find a way round it. So I have my Jehovah Witness advent calendar up ­ you just don’t open any of the doors. Plus I’ve heard all the expert spokespeople saying, “It’s the same for everyone. We’re all in the same boat.” What they forget to mention is that boat is the f***ing Titanic! Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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The Power of one’s Opinion ROBERT SHALLIS HOW powerful and important is our opin­ ion? Well, pretty powerful I would say, how­ ever, it is vital to remember ­ do not become confused between opinions and facts. For example, if you failed a test, your opin­ ion could be that you’re a failure. The fact is, the test was hard but the reality is, you simply failed a test. You have allowed yourself to see it a different way based on your opinion. So, your opinion can have a powerful effect on how you see yourself. One important thing to note, which can be considerably hard to grasp ­ other peo­ ple’s opinions of you are personal to them and actually nothing to do with you. It only becomes about you if you allow it to. Three people could have three completely oppos­ ing opinions of you depending on their per­ sonal view point for whatever reason that may be. Other people’s opinions can be damaging as they can crush our dreams and destroy our hopes, depending on how easily influenced we are by them, even though they may not intentionally mean to do so. Our job is to take

REMEMBER: It all starts with you. heed of only one opinion, the most impor­ tant, the opinion we have of ourselves. The opinion we have of ourselves is linked to the image we have of ourselves ­ our self­ image, it is a thought and a belief. The greater and more positive our self­image is, the high­ er the opinion of ourselves will be. Interest­ ingly enough, the more confidence and belief you have, the more opinions will change around you too as you begin to act like the person you perceive yourself to be. Always remember, it is your opinion that counts, do not get caught up in other people’s percep­ tions of you. But what if you don’t have a good opinion

of yourself or a great self­image? Can it be changed? Absolutely, yes! We were not born with a low opinion of ourselves or a weak self­ image, it’s just what we’ve acquired over many years which has formed into a habit that doesn’t serve us well. The quote ‘’as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he’’ (in other words, as you see yourself, so you are) is a great reminder to steer clear of the negative image you may have of your­ self and replace it with a new one. This will take time but eventually it too will become habitual and allow you to feel empowered with renewed confidence and belief. It’s sim­ ply a positive use of the imagination. It is im­ portant to trust in the process, trust in your­ self and above all, be patient. Focus on what you do well and repeat whenever you can, this will never fail to rein­ force your confidence. One final thing to note, is that you are nev­ er too old to change your self­image. Once you begin to change, people, things and situa­ tions around you will also appear to change as they will no longer impact or influence you in the same way. So, give it a go, why not start now and watch the miracles unfold. See yourself as the person you really want to be as it all starts with you! Rob Shallis www.robshallis.com

FEATURE

Madrid Hospital Shortage THE new Isabel Zendal emergency hospital in Madrid, due to open on December 1, did not receive enough requests for voluntary transfer from existing staff, so the Ministry of Health has said ‘forced displacements’ of existing staff will have to be made if the hospital is to open its doors. The Ministry invited health personnel to apply for a voluntary move to the 699 positions in the new hospital, but on the closing date for applications on Monday, November 23, only 111 out of Madrid’s 70,000 health workers had applied. For this reason, the Madrid government has indicated that the General Directorate of Human Resources and Labour Relations will fill the vacancies by deploying staff from 11,324 existing contracts which are due for renewal. Regional President, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, announced on Wednesday, November 25 that these contracts will now be extended until June 30, 2021.

War Dead To Be Martyrs I T was announced by the Vatican, on Tuesday, November 24, that Pope Francis, following a meeting with Cardinal-designate Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes, has declared that 127 men and women from the Archdiocese of Cordoba, executed during the Spanish Civil War which lasted from

1936 to 1939, have been recognised by the Catholic Church, and they should be declared martyrs, and will now be beatified. The founder of the schools of Ave Maria, in Granada, Spanish Fr Andres Manjon, born in 1846, and died in 1923, was also recognised by Pope Francis, for his heroic virtues.

3 - 9 December 2020 • www.euroweeklynews.com

HOWEVER much we’ve all en­ joyed extended time at home, we all fancy a change. Some peo­ ple are already looking to later in 2021 for a holiday and booking house­sitters to take care of pets and home while they are away. Others are planning a trip over the winter holidays. Have you made your plans yet? We’d like to encourage you to plan ahead for house­sitters if you have trips planned over the holi­ days to see family and friends or just to get away. Now is the time to get ready. We will help you as much as we can. Our philosophy is that we are all in this together. These are the steps one client has taken so far: 1. Registered as a homeown­ er on HouseSitMatch.com 2. She chose a Premium ac­ count (£89 per year) to ensure she could get help online when need­ ed 3. Created a profile with pho­ tos of Daisy and the house, inc fea­ tures of the property (ie swim­ ming pool) 4. Posted a house­sit advert

SPONSORED BY

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PETS

Care for pets in the holidays and beyond! stating the plans for a holiday in the winter, subject to Covid per­ mitted travel Do you need a pet­sitter in 2021? Then get started right now. How does it work? HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our net­ work for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose whom you’d like to care for your pets. Trustpilot Testimonials ­ 4.8 / 5 Excellent rating (New Trustpilot rating scale) Here’s what members have said about us ­ HouseSitMatch found us a per­ fect house­sitter… HouseSitMatch found us a per­ fect house­sitter while we were While you’re away over the holidays, they will need company.

Do you need a house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20 per cent discount using coupon code P2020 - an exclusive offer for readers. To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com.

away in Canada and we were de­ lighted with the care and atten­ tion that HouseSitMatch took in helping us find the right person. Ros Morris ­ Dog owner How do you join? Please register online via

our website www.Housesit match.com ­ Choose a membership plan ­ Please note prices go up soon so sign up now on subscrip­ tion to secure these prices: • Standard (DIY option) = £69 pa • Premium (with support at each step) = £89 pa

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AIR CONDITIONING

PLUMBERS

CHIMNEY SERVICES

POOLS

ROOF REPAIRS

SERVICES

SERVICES

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PLUMBERS

REMOVALS & STORAGE

3 - 9 December 2020

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SERVICES

SERVICES

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3 - 9 December 2020

REMOVALS & STORAGE

TV / SATELLITE TV

INSURANCE

INSURANCE

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CLASSIFIEDS AIR CONDITIONING

CHIMNEY SWEEP

PROFESSIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP Sooty & Son, Family Business established over 60 years. 660 478 881 (289460)

CLUBS/SOCIETIES

APP REPAIRS WASHING MACHINE BROKEN? Call Bluesky Repairs for ALL your domestic appliance repairs. 626 430 671 (Whatsapp)

ARCHITECTS

SPIRITUAL FRIENDS Costa Blanca is a non-religious group of spiritually minded people who meet on Wednesday afternoons. Each week different - clairvoyance, discussions, talks and demonstrations on spiritual or holistic subjects. email sp.fr.cb@gmail.com website www.spiritualfriendscostablanca.c om or contact Jan. 600 837 054

ELECTRICIAN MB ELECTRICS. Approved electrician. Any electrical repair. Iberdrola paperwork. Affordable prices. Miquel 655 282 175 www.mbelectrics.es (288732)

FOR SALE/WANTED WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)

GARDENING SERVICES BUSINESS OPP. Coyote Street Food bar, business opportunity for sale. Modern container installation. Tacos , pancakes, waffle, gofre,Smoothie Coctails, Yogurt Ice cream ( best Italian Gelmatic machine), display fridge , fully equipped. 648 603 343 michaelmaj11 @gmail.com (290080)

BUY & SELL BUY FUR Coats & Jackets, handbags, designer bags, oriental & Persian carpets, jewellery & watches. All kind of Silver, sliver plated 90/100/800. Cutlery, tin, amber, coral, coins, medals, porcelain. Radio, musical instruments. Military items until 1945, photos, medals etc. Fair price paid in CASH. Phone 688 335 497

PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE. Palm cleaning and treating / Pine trees. Overgrown gardens. Quick with quality service. Plastic and Gravel work. Economical prices. Free quote. Call David 643 989 634 (286341) DAVID THE TREE GUY Cutting, trimming & removal of trees. Torrevieja, Alicante, Benidorm areas. 722 652 173 (290501)

GENERAL SERVICES MISTER Fix-it handyman, available in Jalon Valley area, hourly rates, 657189519 (290302)

GOLD WANTED

BUY vinyl records, record players, CD’s & Radios. 688 335 497

62

WIGS

DOGS & ALL PETS VERY WELCOME - 500 year old beamed cottage set in beautiful valley of the charming Jesus Pobre village, Javea. Beautiful pool & garden. www.littlehouseinspain.com STUDIO long let near Mcdonalds Albir for retired person or pensioner includes gas water & electric €450 no animals tel 670 330 084 ALBIR unfurnished apartment for long-term rent, close to amenities, 2 bed, 2 bath, equipped kitchen, air-con/heating, terrace, garage, beautiful gardens, 2 pools, 1 heated & covered. €760/mth Tel: 696 034 028 (290903)

BENEFICIAL INSURANCE SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@beneficialinsuranceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsuranceinspain.co m for online quote. (289158)

STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure .com (2887610)

LEGAL www.iurisunited.net Lawyers. Tax advice and bookkeeping. All Gestoria Services. Experts in Brexit and Residence Permits. NIE Numbers. FREE 1st.consultation. Ask Oliver. Tel: 606 051 000 info@iurisunited.net (290541)

PROPERTY WANTED RETIRED couple looking for long term rental in La Marina Baixa – prefer two beds. Needed urgently – call Janice on 0044 7736 251 800 (279523)

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 902 123 309. (200726)

PAINTERS/DECORATORS DECORATORS W.D. GILMOUR. Painter & Decorator. Established 35 years in Moraira. ESTIMATES FREE. Call William on 609 691 776 or 966 490 602 (290369)

PEST CONTROL BUGBUSTERS BENIDORM: Fully Legal Costa Blanca Pest Control Company. EST 1994. For all pest problems, commercial and domestic. Call Lois Clark 619 054 939/96 686 5204. bugbuster slois@hotmail.com. ROESB 05552 CV (286372)

NEED YOUR PETS TAKEN CARE OF? Not kennels, just a friendly home. Large fenced area. 699 790 080 Altea (288697)

HEALTH & BEAUTY SOLEMATE MOBILE FOOT HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. 692 031 849 (2898171) CHIROPODIST/PODIATRIST, Philip Mann, clinics in Benissa, Moraira, Javea, Calpe and Albir. 686 912 307 (279267)

THERAPIST COUNSELLING PSYCHOTHERAPIST. TEL: 634 35 48 92 / www.feelgoodcs.com (286340)

For daily news visit www.euroweeklynews.com

GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)

MOTORING AUTO BASTIAN mobile mechanic. Tel 608 860 725.(289159)

FOR SALE CITROEN C4 Picasso 2010, VTR plus, diesel, silver, 60k miles, RHD, on full UK MOT etc, excellent condition, Air- con, tow bar. Denia +447976 722 351

SPANISH INTERPRETER for all your appointment needs, has car. Effective, Friendly & Affordable service. Call 609 679 808 (290313)

WANTED

BENIDORM and surrounding areas. Two-man removal. 678 067 163 (288644) KLF TRANSPORT REMOVALS AND STORAGE. VAN GOING TO ENGLAND AND BACK TO SPAIN. SPACE AVAILABLE BOTH WAYS. ALSO, LOCAL REMOVALS FROM A SINGLE ITEM TO FULL HOUSE. TEL: 604 129 344 (288110) TRANSCONE TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS Fortnightly collection & deliveries to & from UK. All areas covered from Alicante to Valencia. Tel. 603 307 962, (0044) 7925 553625 Email - aaronrichards88@ live.co.uk (290322) La Cala, Man & van. Removals, deliveries plus flat pack collection and assembly. Tlf 630655374

ROLLER SHUTTERS ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS, awnings, motors, mosquito blinds. Calpe + 50 kms. 659 464 992 www.toldosalchemy.com

STRUCTURAL SURVEYS MARK PADDON BSc Hons. MCIOB, CAAT - LOCKDOWN REMOTE WHATSAPP VIDEO ADVICE available for reduced fee Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costablancasurveyors.com

PLUMBING MISCELLANEOUS

TRANSLATIONS

REMOVALS/STORAGE

PETS

CAMPING

CARER/NURSE

PROPERTY TO LET

CASH BACK OFFER! CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UPTO A €1000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATS APP TO) OR VISIT www.sosinsuranceinspain.co m or email tracey@sosinsur anceinspain.com (289799)

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 902 123 309, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 902 123 309 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

SITUATIONS VACANT

PEDREGUER detached Villa, 2 Bed, 2 Bath. Garden with fruit trees. €190,000. 633 813 774

INSURANCE

V-FIT AR1 Artemis II Air Rowing Machine €80 Tel: 966 474 641 (290811)

ENGLISH carer, former registered nurse in UK. References available. Altea and surrounding areas. Available for home care and services. Call Dean on 633684893 (290722)

PROPERTY FOR SALE

WWW.WIGS-R-US.ES Indoor Market Rincon de Loix, Benidorm. Monday - Saturday 10 - 3. Hundreds of wigs in stock, private appointments after 3pm and home visits. 681 049 502 (286458)

METAL WORK

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693

3 - 9 December 2020 • www.euroweeklynews.com SPONSORED BY

RIGHT PLUMBER - plumbing & drainage for a honest, affordable, professional service call 656 303 236 (288474)

POOL REPAIRS

XXX RELAXATION Please note that in Spain there is NO legislation banning adverts in this section. Neither regional nor national governments are able to pass such a law due to rules governing freedom of publication and printing. READERS OF A SENSITIVE DISPOSITION MAY FIND SOME OF THE ADVERTISEMENTS IN THIS SECTION OFFENSIVE.

XXX FEMALE CALPE. ELENA RUSSIAN Girl Massage. Tel: 601 281 426 BENIDORM: Pretty lady, excellent full body massage €50 per hour. Above Restaurant Toni Roma’s. 646 667 604 (288166) SOPHIE naughty, slim, elé gant lady. 3 languages spoken. Visit all areas, also private apartment in Villamartin. 693 357 526 (281656)

XXX VARIOUS For daily news visit www.euroweeklynews.com

SITUATIONS VACANT

VIAGRA / KAMAGRA / CIALIS. BEST PRICES. FREE DISCREET DELIVERY. ALL AREAS COVERED. TEL: PETER 644 139 274 (290560)

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to read more visit ROAD TEST by Mark Slack DESPITE their last wins being over a decade ago Subaru are still known for their numerous wins in the iconic WRC Im­ preza models. However, the company has always had more appeal than just rallying with models defined by their flat­four boxer engines and all­wheel­drive. Originally a traditional es­ tate car the Forester has mor­ phed into a crossover and a very capable one that can tackle surprisingly tough off­ road situations. It’s perma­ nent all­wheel­drive offers power to the wheels that have most traction. It also has additional tricks in its ar­ moury with what Subaru call X­Drive that includes hill de­ scent control and manage­ ment of everything on the all­ wheel­drive, so you just steer your way through the off­road terrain. While no Land Rover I know from personal experi­ ence, this is a very capable machine. The Forester is available in

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MOTORING

Confidence inspiring Subaru Forester a very mild hybrid form. Even with this it isn’t the most eco­ nomical though and rivals will offer better figures. The mild hybrid has a small battery and electric motor which recovers energy under deceleration from braking and coasting, and then deploys it to assist the petrol engine as you accel­ erate. Considering its size, it is big, the Forester doesn’t feel un­ wieldy on the road. With tidy handling it feels light and re­ sponsive and has one of the better CVT transmissions. It’s not going to set your driving senses alight but this is a very comfortable, exceptionally practical and well equipped car. Prices start from £36,335 for the 2.0­litre e­Boxer model and that nets you all­wheel­ drive, keyless entry and start, steering lights with high beam assist, the usual function filled sound and Bluetooth fea­ tures, heated front seats, powered and heated door

mirrors, windscreen wiper de­ icing, cruise control and satel­ lite navigation to name a few. There are only two trim levels and the next level up gains leather upholstery, heated

front and rear seats and steer­ ing wheel. The entry level model arguably looks the bet­ ter bet on price and equip­ ment. Mechanicals stay the same irrespective of model.

This is one of those cars that just grows on you and in­ spires confidence on the road. I don’t think there are many cars, as opposed to off­road SUVs, that you would feel

able to take on any terrain and conditions the weather can muster. The Forester is more of an intelligent choice, a proper lifestyle vehicle for all conditions.